The two groups announced the signing of a new 10-year Use and Lease Agreement, which will see new capital investments and renovations to improve the passenger experience.

 

Projects, Renovations and a Local Commitment

In a statement issued by American Airlines on Tuesday, the airline confirmed that the agreement – which is the primary governing document between the carrier and the airport and the basis for the facility’s business model – features $4.8 billion in pre-approved capital investments plus the provision for a wide range of additional renovations and improvements to be made at DFW over the course of the next decade. Among projects of note is an estimated $2.72 billion earmarked for expansion of the airport’s central terminal area – including a refreshed Terminal C and expanded gates for Terminal A and Terminal C. This project will also include major upgrades to terminal access and roadways.

 

Additionally, the agreement also sets out a $1.63 billion to be allocated for the construction of a new Terminal F, which is to feature a 15-gate concourse. When taken comprehensively, these terminal expansions will add 24 new gates to DFW, ensuring that both the airport and American – which serves the majority of passengers who transit via the facility and is a major contributor to the area’s economy – are well-positioned for long-term growth.

 

Indeed, the completion of these projects will see AA fold additional gates in Terminal A and Terminal C into its operations at DFW while also allowing the airline to increase its presence in existing terminals to better serve connecting travelers. This new Use and Lease Agreement – which supersedes the agreement signed by the two parties back in 2010 – not only signals a commitment to growth at DFW, but to American’s wider commitment in North Texas, the area in which almost 35,000 of the airline’s crew members are based.

 

Growing a Hub, Growing Partnerships

Commenting on the announcement, American’s CEO Robert Isom, said, “American is proud to call North Texas home, and DFW is our largest hub and a central gateway to our extensive international and domestic network. American has led the growth that has propelled DFW to become the second busiest airport in the world and we are thrilled to finalize a new lease agreement and capital plan that sets the stage for American, DFW and the North Texas region to continue to grow for years to come.”

 

“The Use and Lease Agreement not only creates a predictable and equitable business model for DFW Airport, but it also underscores the commitment of the airport and our airline partners to provide passengers with the best possible travel experience. Our partnership with American Airlines, our largest airline, is stronger than ever. With the support of Robert Isom and the American team, we are making investments that set the stage for the airport of the future — one that prioritizes innovation, customer experience and sustainability,” added DFW Airport CEO Sean Donohue.

 

Speaking on behalf of the city of Fort Worth, Mayor Mattie Parker said, “We are very proud that Fort Worth-based American Airlines has signed this important agreement to cement DFW’s status as American’s main hub and help us continue to meet the incredible demand we are experiencing in North Texas. Our region will become the nation’s third largest metro region within the next 10 years, and it’s no surprise that we have the second busiest airport in the world. Today’s agreement ensures DFW Airport is ready for the future and to continue serving as Fort Worth’s gateway to the world.”

 

Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson added, “As a growing, international city, Dallas takes great pride in its partnerships with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport and American Airlines. DFW Airport connects our community to the world and fuels economic growth throughout our region and state. We all recognize that North Texas is the place to be. Signing the new Use and Lease Agreement is one step to ensure our region remains well-positioned to thrive in the future.”

 

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Source: frugal travel guy