The $2.15bn Portland International (PDX) airport has completed its main terminal expansion after a decade-long of renovations. The second and final phase of the globally acclaimed main terminal has now been fully opened. Designed by ZGF for the Port of Portland, the project is already monumental. For instance, the one million-square-foot project is the largest public infrastructure project delivered in Oregon’s history.

Furthermore, it realizes an 11 year vision to create a more welcoming, sustainable, and distinctly Pacific Northwest gateway for travelers. Since phase I opened in 2024, the terminal has received multiple international honors. These include the Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airport award, Fast Company’s Best Design in North America distinction, and recognition from the Holcim Foundation for Sustainable Construction. Featuring a 9-acre mass timber roof, the terminal evokes the feeling of walking through a Pacific Northwest forest.

It also includes views of the airfield, abundant natural light, and interior landscapes that celebrate the beauty of the region are present at every step of the passenger journey. It compliments the Redmond Municipal airport expansion which as of 2026, construction has transitioned to the vertical phase, and the project is scheduled to reach completion in late 2027. The expansion will add more than 80,000 square feet of new space.

Outlook on the PDX International Airport Main Terminal Expansion

The second phase of the PDX International Airport main terminal expansion introduces a distinct arrival experience for passengers. It includes new exit lanes on the north and south ends of the terminal streamline concourse connections, leading arriving passengers to a new descent to baggage claim. Expanded post-security gathering areas create comfortable spaces for welcoming arriving travelers.

Moreover, skylit all-user restrooms, new local retail and dining options, and art installations complete the passenger experience. “This airport is designed to meet the needs of travelers today while adapting to the demands of the future, enabling it to serve the region for decades to come. PDX provides a gateway to the Pacific Northwest, offering an unforgettable introduction to what makes this place so special,” said ZGF Managing Partner Sharron van der Meulen.

The $2 billion terminal renovation and expansion is the largest mass timber project of its kind. Instead of building an entirely new terminal, the Port of Portland and ZGF decided to renovate and expand in place. This kept the airport fully operational throughout five years of phased construction. It also facilitated realizing schedule, time, and carbon savings. The strategy was made possible, in part, by a prefabricated wood roof that spans the entire terminal.

Project Overview

• Project Value: $2.15B
• Location: Portland, Oregon
• Owner: Port of Portland
• Designer: ZGF
• Status: Completed

Scope

• 1 million-sq-ft terminal expansion
• Two-phase renovation completed
• 9-acre mass timber roof
• New passenger amenities and retail
• Airport remained operational during construction

Project Highlights

• Largest public infrastructure project in Oregon
• Largest mass timber airport project
• Sustainable terminal design
• Improved passenger experience

Key Features

• New arrivals and baggage claim access
• Expanded post-security gathering areas
• Skylit restrooms and local dining
• Public art and natural landscaping

Awards

• Prix Versailles World’s Most Beautiful Airport
• Fast Company Best Design award
• Holcim Foundation recognition
• Multiple international design honors

Outlook

• Terminal now fully operational
• Built for future passenger growth
• Enhances sustainability and efficiency
• Strengthens PDX as a Pacific Northwest gateway