The New Indianapolis Airport will feature a newly-constructed,
modern terminal building located between the two existing main
runways along with new highway access, new and improved parking
and support facilities and improved utilities and airside operations.
FAQ
:
Q.
Why are you calling this project “The New Indianapolis
Airport”? Isn’t this just an expansion project?
A.
From a passenger’s perspective, this project really
will be a new airport. The terminal will be entirely new and
in an entirely new location. The parking lot and garage will
be new. Access to the terminal will be new, via a new interchange
on I-70 west of I-465.
Q.
Why do we need a new terminal?
A.
The existing terminal is old, with parts dating back almost
50 years. The modern requirements for security, parking, baggage
handling, communications and other systems are difficult to
satisfy in the building. Also, it’s in the wrong place.
The new terminal’s location between the two main runways
will reduce noise and pollution and save taxiing time and
fuel.
Q.
When will the project be completed?
A.
The new passenger terminal complex is scheduled to open in late 2008. Construction of the new terminal began in July 2005.
Q.
How much will this cost and who will pay for it?
A.
The entire project has a budget of about $1.1 billion. Airport revenues
will pay most of the cost from the airlines, retailers, parking and the
like. The federal government will contribute some funds for aviation
purposes, such as the new control tower. The Indianapolis Airport Authority
gets no state or local tax dollars for this project.
Q.
I have heard that the airport is putting in a third runway
south of I-70. Is that true?
A.
There is no new runway construction in the current project.
The airport’s Master Plan allows for a third main runway
sometime in the future, and the I-70 project now under way
will lower the highway to permit an eventual taxiway over
the interstate, but that runway is not part of the current
project.
Q.
What will happen to the existing passenger terminal?
A.
That decision has not yet been made. We do know that all
passenger flights, including international arrivals, will
come to the new terminal.
Q.
Will there be more direct flights to and from Indianapolis
at the new terminal?
A.
That’s a decision that the airlines will make. It
is our hope that the new terminal’s space, design and
location will encourage air travel to Indianapolis and persuade
airlines that direct flights to more destinations will pay
off for them.
