Few airports mirror the essence of their surrounding city quite like Palm Springs International. However, fashion can no longer come at the price of function, as the city plans an aggressive expansion of the airport to the tune of $2.2 billion, greenlit by the city council on January 23. And while every effort will be made to maintain the historic charm of Palm Springs International Airport, a burgeoning tourism industry and population boom mean that any changes need to be big. And that’s one thing the airport is not.
Traffic through the airport was clocked at 3.2 million visitors in both 2023 and 2024. And by 2042, that figure is predicted to double to 6.4 million passengers in response to local tourism initiatives and housing development. In just the years spanning 2021 to 2024, Palm Springs’ population surged by a considerable five percent.
Preserving Donald Wexler’s Innovative Design
Naturally, planners are taking significant account of the distinctive design of Palm Springs International Airport. The central terminal, a Donald Wexler-designed structure, is preserved by its placement on the National Register of Historic Places. But official classifications aside, it’s also a beloved monument of the Palm Springs community since its official opening in 1966. Not to mention a heck of a first impression for visitors stepping off a plane into this mid-century wonderland for the first time.
Phases of the Palm Springs International Airport Expansion Project
Currently, the massive project is planned to be executed in two primary phases. The first phase of construction, estimated to cost $754 million, would include:
- Adding a north concourse
- Constructing a rental car area (with a designated section for hybrid rentals)
- Doubling the number of terminal gates from 18 to 32
- Establishing a federal inspection checkpoint (to expand international flight capabilities)
- Expanding the baggage claim area
The second phase of construction would bring the project to its $2.2 billion mark, and include:
- Adding a south concourse
- Building a rental car storage area
- Putting general improvements to the airfield in place
As always, I stand by to offer any information/ideas/perspectives to you, your friends and your family as needed in the Palm Springs area
Photos by Sdkb, Flypsp.com,Apk