American Airlines and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) have entered into a new 10-year Use and Lease Agreement which includes $4.8 billion in pre-approved capital investments, sets the stage for significant expansions and renovations at the airport. Major projects include the construction of Terminal F, the renovation of Terminal C, and gate expansions at Terminal A and Terminal C.
The agreement was announced in a special event attended by Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, and DFW Airport CEO Sean Donohue. This marked a significant moment for the airport, known to be the world’s second-busiest.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom expressed the company’s commitment to continue fostering growth in the North Texas region. Isom stated that American Airlines’ efforts have significantly contributed to DFW’s status as the second busiest airport globally.
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson both acknowledged the critical role DFW and American Airlines play in the region’s economic growth. Mayor Parker emphasized that the agreement secures the airport’s readiness for future demands, given the region’s expected growth in the coming years. Mayor Johnson echoed this sentiment, recognizing the importance of the new Use and Lease Agreement for the region’s future prosperity.
Sean Donohue, DFW Airport CEO, stressed that the agreement underscores the airport and its airline partners’ dedication to offering an optimal travel experience. Donohue noted that the agreement sets the stage for the future development of the airport, prioritizing innovation, customer experience, and sustainability.
The new agreement includes major capital projects over the next 10 years. Approximately $2.72 billion is allocated for the expansion of the Central Terminal Area, including significant upgrades to Terminal C, gate expansions at Terminal A and Terminal C, and major road and terminal access improvements. Additionally, $1.63 billion is planned for the construction of a new Terminal F, which will feature a 15-gate concourse.
The terminal expansions will add 24 additional gates, preparing American and DFW for long-term growth. Once construction is complete, American Airlines will add new gates in Terminal A and Terminal C to its operational portfolio. These projects also pave the way for American to expand operations in existing terminals, enhancing the experience for customers.
The new Use and Lease Agreement replaces the 2010 agreement. It maintains many of the same business arrangements as the prior version, providing certainty and cost predictability, critical for American’s and DFW’s continued growth.
American Airlines accounts for approximately 85% of DFW’s passenger traffic, with around two-thirds of American’s customers connecting through DFW. The airline currently operates more than 240 nonstop flights out of DFW.
American Airlines is a major employer in the region, with nearly 35,000 of the airline’s team members based at the airport and on American’s 300-acre Robert L. Crandall Campus in Fort Worth. This campus houses American’s headquarters and supports global operations and team members. American recently opened its 600-room Skyview 6 Hospitality Complex, the latest facility on campus for team members visiting for training.
American Airlines’ economic impact on Texas exceeds $42.7 billion annually, employing more than 36,000 team members across the state. Furthermore, American’s operation in Texas contributes to a total employment impact of over 365,000 jobs in the state.
