Overview
The new, state-of-the-art landside terminal modernizes operations, while transforming the airport into a regional gateway, built for Pittsburgh, by Pittsburgh.
Challenge
Like many aging U.S. airports, Pittsburgh International Airport required an upgrade to meet modern standards.
Originally designed to connect the landside and airside terminals by an automated people mover, the airport no longer reflected the expectations of modern travelers — or the identity of the region it serves. With nearly 10 million passengers in 2024 — the highest since 2006 — the terminal transformation offered a timely opportunity to modernize operations and express Pittsburgh’s growing national and international relevance.
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Why this mattered
This is the airport that Pittsburgh deserves; it’s the new front door to the region, but it is so much more than a building.
Solution
Gensler + HDR, in association with luis vidal + architects, designed a new 811,000-square-foot terminal that brings together all major airport functions within a single, streamlined structure.
The terminal reflects Pittsburgh’s unique landscape and character through biophilic design, regional materials, and public art. Four outdoor terraces — two pre-security and two post-security — feature native plants, walkways, and benches. Undulating wood ceilings, tree-like columns, and a roofline inspired by rolling hills create a passenger experience that feels efficient and deeply local.
What changed because of this
01
Reflecting Pittsburgh's unique landscape
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02
Streamlined Structure
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03
Deeply Local
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Native plants, walkways, and benches.
Undulating wood ceilings, tree-like columns, and a roofline inspired by rolling hills create a passenger experience that feels efficient and deeply local.
- 811,000
- Square-feet
- 13-15
- Million passenger accommodation
- 50%
- Time cut from curbside to airside travel
- 811,000
- Square-feet
- 13-15
- Million passenger accommodation
- 50%
- Time cut from curbside to airside travel
Impact
The new terminal redefines the passenger journey at PIT — cutting walk times, easing congestion, and eliminating the need for an automated people mover.
The design enhances operational efficiency and speeds the security and check-in processes, while creating a welcoming civic space that celebrates Pittsburgh’s identity. With thoughtful waiting areas, seamless curb-to-gate connectivity, and terraces offering moments of pause and respite, the airport becomes more than a gateway; it becomes part of the region’s story.
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Recognition
Condé Nast Traveller spotlighted two Gensler-led airports among “The World’s Most Beautiful Airports.” The 2026 Prix Versailles honored Pittsburgh International Airport, designed in collaboration with luis vidal + architects, and San Diego International Airport, developed with James Carpenter.
Archinect shared the 2026 Prix Versailles World Selection recognition of two recently completed Gensler projects, Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal and San Diego International Airport’s Terminal 1, in the Aviation category of the world’s best contemporary architecture projects. (https://archinect.com/news/bustler/11012/world-s-most-beautiful-airports-of-2026-chosen-by-prix-versailles)
Dezeen spotlighted Pittsburgh International Airport’s new “pavilion in the landscape” design led by Gensler and HDR, in association with luis vidal + architects. The terminal aims to balance travelers’ “aspirational experience” and the mechanics of airport operations, noted Gensler’s Carolyn Sponza.
FAQ
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The team at Gensler.
The team at Gensler.
2024 by the team at Gensler.
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