Delta, Allegiant move gates in Memphis as airport shutters 55-year-old concourse
MEMPHIS -- Delta Air Lines will move to new gates at Memphis International Airport on Wednesday as B Concourse closes, except for international arrival gates, for a three-year construction project.
The airport is relocating airlines, restaurants and retail businesses to A and C concourses to make way for a $214 million modernization of B Concourse, the oldest and largest passenger-handling facility.
Delta will use gates A17, A19, A21, A23, A25 and A27; Allegiant also will move out of B Concourse and start using gates C2 and C4 on Thursday.
International arrival gates B41, B42 and B43 and the U.S. Customs will continue in operation in B Concourse. International passengers will be bused to baggage claim after clearing customs.
The airport’s multiyear modernization of B Concourse will include wider corridors, moving walkways, larger boarding areas, higher ceilings, seismic upgrades and more natural lighting, amenities and concession options.
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Airport President and CEO Scott Brockman said in a release that the closing of B Concourse is “a huge milestone for our modernization project. The end result will be a new state-of-the-art facility that will lead to a more efficient and ‘positively MEMorable’ travel experience for our passengers and a wonderful ‘front door’ to our community.”
The closing will cause some changes in concessions:
- Lenny’s Subs will relocate from B Concourse to near gate A23.
- Torn Basil, an Italian-themed restaurant, is expected to open by the end of April near gate A27.
- A new Blue Moon kiosk bar is scheduled to open near gates C1 and C3 later this year.
The bidding process is underway for the project. Airport officials expect to select a prime contractor and construction team to recommend to the Airport Authority board in June, with construction starting in July. Completion is scheduled in 2021.
Reach Wayne Risher at (901) 529-2874 or wayne.risher@commercialappeal.com.
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