Asheville -- April 17, 2026: Travelers arriving at Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) today, April 17, 2026, are the first to experience the latest upgrade in the airport's massive $400 million expansion project. This morning, the first phase of the brand-new baggage claim facility officially opened for service, marking a significant step toward the completion of the "AVL Forward" initiative.
The opening follows the final closure of the airport’s legacy baggage claim area, which saw its last flight on the evening of April 16. For many residents, the old area was a familiar fixture of the "small town" airport feel, but the shift reflects the necessity of modernization as AVL continues to break passenger records.
What Travelers Can Expect
Starting with the first arrival this morning, passengers will notice a change in how they navigate the terminal:
New Pathway: After deplaning at the North Concourse, passengers proceed through the ticket lobby and follow a clearly marked outdoor walkway to reach the new facility.
Relocated Services: The Guest Services Center has also transitioned to the new baggage claim area today to assist arriving travelers.
Increased Capacity: While this is a partial opening, the new systems are designed to handle larger aircraft and simultaneous arrivals more efficiently than the previous infrastructure. The Bigger Picture: AVL Forward
The new baggage claim is a centerpiece of a five-year project that began in 2023. Once the entire facility is complete in late 2027 or early 2028, the terminal will have grown by 150%, reaching a total of 335,000 square feet.
“The first phase of our new baggage claim is another major step forward in delivering a modern, efficient airport experience for our passengers,” said Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO of Asheville Regional Airport. “As passenger volumes continue to grow, these improvements ensure AVL is prepared to meet demand.”
Next Milestones
The transformation of AVL is moving at a brisk pace, with several other major developments on the horizon:
May 2026: New rental car counters are slated to open in the terminal.
Early Summer 2026: The new 127-foot Air Traffic Control Tower is expected to be commissioned.
Summer 2027: The final portion of the baggage claim area, which will feature a total of three carousels, is scheduled to debut.
As construction continues, airport officials advise passengers to allow extra time for navigating the terminal and to follow all posted signage during this transitional phase.
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