Trump Unveils $22.5 Billion Dulles Airport Revamp

This project forms part of Trump's broader initiative to beautify Washington, D.C., following extensive changes to the White House and its grounds, including the demolition of the East Wing.

A video posted on social media by an aide showed Trump had placed model planes throughout the Oval Office and across the Resolute Desk.

The modernist main terminal's distinctive sloped roof, designed by Eero Saarinen, will not face alteration under the proposed plans.

However, the airport's iconic mobile lounges are slated for removal, to be replaced by an underground U-shaped aerotrain system connecting to four new concourses.

Dulles has relied on these 'people movers' since its opening in 1962; the renovation will entirely phase out the system.

This shift follows an incident in November 2025 when one of the mobile lounges crashed, sending 18 people to the hospital.

The planned overhaul also expects to include five new terminals, an expanded underground train network, a new underground pedestrian tunnel, and additional moving walkways.

The present parking lot will be relocated closer to the main terminal as part of the comprehensive redesign.

The announcement is scheduled for 3 PM today at the White House, with key figures expected to attend.

Sean Duffy, the US Transportation Secretary, Scott Kirby, United Airlines Chief Executive, and officials from the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority are all expected to join Trump for the unveiling.

The airport, situated approximately 25 miles from downtown Washington, handled a record 29 million passengers in 2025.

Dulles is also set to open a new 14-gate concourse for United Airlines this autumn, further expanding its operational capacity.