By Kolby LaMarche

Passengers stepped into a transformed Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport on its first full day of operations in the newly expanded terminal space Tuesday, as the airport officially opened Project NexT to screened travelers and flights.

The milestone followed a community open house held March 28, when hundreds of Vermonters toured the new gates, jet bridges and passenger areas ahead of the debut. 

The decade-in-the-making project reconfigures the terminal into a more linear, interconnected layout designed to improve flow, boost safety and meet the demands of modern air travel.

“Project NexT represents a transformative moment for Leahy BTV and the region we serve,” said Nic Longo, Director of Aviation at Leahy BTV. “After nearly a decade of planning, we are proud to open a space that enhances safety, efficiency, and sustainability—while delivering an elevated passenger experience and reinforcing the economic vitality of our region.”

Project NexT has been a cornerstone of the airport’s Master Plan for close to 10 years. As Vermont’s primary air gateway, Leahy BTV has evolved from a mid-20th-century facility into one better equipped for larger aircraft, growing passenger volumes and shifting traveler expectations. 

The expansion adds upgraded gate areas, jet bridges and expanded vendor spaces while modernizing airline operations, including baggage claim and storage facilities to handle current equipment needs.

Expanded concession areas open doors for Vermont businesses and brands to reach more travelers, while improved capacity and efficiency are expected to support additional routes, strengthening business travel, tourism and workforce connections across the state.

“Project NexT is a powerful example of what long-term vision and partnership can deliver for our community,” stated Mayor Emma Mulvaney-Stanak. 

Funding for the project came mostly from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program, with 90 percent covered by federal dollars secured in part through Sen. Leahy’s FY23 Congressional Directed Spending. 

The remaining 10 percent was supported by Passenger Facility Charges paid by travelers.

“Every time I flew back from Washington to Burlington, I knew I was coming home—to the people, the values, and the spirit that make Vermont so special,” said Sen. Patrick Leahy. 

He added, “I congratulate the entire airport community on the completion of this project and your commitment to not only Vermont’s economy, but a sustainable future for our airport.”

Sustainability sits at the heart of the design. The terminal was built with net-zero energy goals in mind, incorporating solar and geothermal systems intended to generate as much power as the facility consumes. Smart technologies — sensors, data analytics and AI-driven systems — will optimize energy and water use, streamline passenger movement and cut waste.

“Project NexT represents a leap forward in how airports can operate more efficiently and with less environmental impact,” said Jeff Bartley, Director of Innovation & Marketing at Leahy BTV. 

Design firm Jacobs, which led the architectural work, emphasized the project’s environmental focus from the outset.

Officials say the new layout not only eases congestion but also improves the overall traveler experience with brighter, more open spaces and better amenities.