The Study

Background

At the completion of the 2015 master plan, the City adopted a capital improvement plan (ATLNext) that has guided Airport development for the past 8 years. Notable completed projects in ATLNext include Terminal Modernization, Concourse T-North Extension, ATL West Parking Deck, Runway 9L End-Around Taxiway, and Fire Station #40. These projects have served to expand capacity, renew, and replace existing facilities, and enhance ATL’s aesthetic appeal. As these projects and others planned in ATLNext are completed, it becomes essential to identify subsequent actions to maintain and enhance the Airport’s facilities. In addition, federal law requires the City to maintain an up-to-date airport layout plan that depicts existing and proposed facilities and infrastructure. To comply with this ongoing requirement and to exercise prudent airport planning, the City is updating the master plan to provide a framework for future airport development.

Master Plan Update

The master plan update will take place over 2 years. During the initial phase, planners will update information about existing facilities and prepare a 20-year forecast of passenger and aircraft activity. During subsequent phases of the study, planners will assess the capabilities of existing facilities and determine whether they can accommodate the anticipated growth in demand. The “gap” between existing facility capabilities and future facility needs will provide the basis for creating development alternatives. The final phase of the study will entail developing and evaluating alternative concepts to meet future facility needs, as well as selecting a preferred path of facility development. Throughout the process, public involvement and stakeholder coordination will be critical to ensuring the selected plan meets the needs of users and the community by providing an efficient facility in a cost-effective manner and by maintaining the Airport’s role as the region’s economic driver.