Albany International Airport Completes First Phase of Concourse A Modernization
ALBANY, NY – July 28, 2025 – Albany International Airport (ALB) has completed Phase 1 of its Concourse A Rehabilitation Project, marking a significant milestone in the most substantial overhaul to the concourse since it opened in 1979.
The focal point of this first phase is the addition of two new jet bridge-equipped gates, A1 and A2, located on the upper level alongside existing gates A3 through A6. Previously, gates A1 and A2 functioned as ground-level boarding areas, accessible only by walking outside, and were rarely used. These modern, second-floor gates replace that outdated infrastructure with an efficient, weather-protected boarding experience that aligns with today’s passenger expectations.
“Albany International is the front door to our region, and this project shows we’re serious about making a great first impression,” said Sam Fresina, Chair of the Albany County Airport Authority Board. “We’re not just updating a concourse, we’re investing in infrastructure that supports jobs, attracts new routes, and keeps this airport competitive for years to come.”
“Albany International is the oldest municipal airport in the nation, and has come a long way since it was built on this site nearly 100 years ago. We knew it needed to be modernized as it continues to grow,” said Daniel P. McCoy, Albany County Executive. “Thank you to Senators Schumer and Gillibrand for providing the much-needed federal money to make these improvements that benefit travelers and our economy.”
The first flights to use the newly constructed gates departed earlier today, with Allegiant Air operating from Gate A1 and United Airlines scheduled to depart from Gate A2 later this week. These inaugural departures mark the official opening of the upgraded portion of Concourse A for passenger service.
“This is more than a cosmetic update, it’s a fundamental improvement to the way we serve travelers,” said Peter Stuto, CEO of the Albany County Airport Authority. “Today marks an important milestone in our long-term effort to deliver a more modern, efficient, and welcoming airport experience for everyone who passes through ALB.”
Additional upgrades in Phase 1 include:
• Polished terrazzo flooring and a modernized ceiling design
• All-new seating with integrated power outlets
• Dedicated space for a future concession vendor• Upgraded lighting and energy-efficient infrastructure
The cost of construction for the full Concourse A Rehabilitation Project is $13.36 million. Of that, $10.6 million was provided through a federal grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The funding supports the full scope of the project, which is scheduled to be completed next year.
The Concourse A project was made possible in part by a $10.6 million federal grant secured through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand were instrumental in delivering this funding to Albany.
Senator Schumer said, “Smoother and expanded air travel destinations are on the horizon for Albany. The completion of Phase 1 of Albany International Airport’s terminal project is a major milestone—not just for Capital Region air travelers, but for all of Upstate NY. I fought hard to secure $10.6 million in federal funding from our Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to help finally give the modern airport and new gates to provide opportunities to attract new routes, connecting customers to more destinations and more visitors to Albany. The sky is the limit for the Albany International Airport.”
“Albany International Airport serves more than one million passengers each year, and it’s essential that travelers have access to the safe, modern, and efficient infrastructure they deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These upgrades to Concourse A will help provide Capital Region passengers with the state-of-the-art facilities they need while enhancing the passenger experience. I am proud to have fought hard to deliver the funding that made these improvements possible, and as the top Democrat on the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee, I will keep fighting to secure more much-needed funding for airport improvements across our state.”
Future phases will include renovations to gates A3 through A6, improved restrooms, upgraded mechanical systems, and additional passenger amenities, which are all designed to modernize the concourse, enhance the customer experience, and support ALB’s continued growth.
To download photos, click here.
For more information, contact:
Matt Hunter
Director of Communications
Albany International Airport
(518) 225-0641
