Ogden, UT — The passenger experience at Ogden-Hinckley Airport is set to undergo a major transformation, as city and airport officials celebrated the groundbreaking of a $4.4 million terminal expansion on Monday.
The project aims to significantly improve the flow of passengers and enhance safety around the terminal, with a particular focus on accommodating increased traffic. The improvements will also create a more welcoming environment for travelers, said Ogden Mayor Ben Nadolski, who addressed the crowd during the groundbreaking ceremony.
“We’re here to talk about building a structure,” Nadolski stated. “But it’s more than that. We’re building a culture, a vision, and a future. This is part of a bigger effort to improve Ogden and its appeal to those who visit.”
The planned upgrades include the addition of six drop-off lanes, a new indoor baggage claim area, and improved ADA access. Additionally, the project will enhance the terminal’s overall capacity by expanding the interior to create more space for seating and potential future services, such as additional airlines or rental car options. The new design also incorporates a more efficient traffic pattern to prevent bottlenecks, including a roundabout in the terminal’s drop-off area.
Brian Condie, Ogden City Airport Director, explained that the changes would help manage higher passenger numbers and create a smoother airport experience. “The current drop-off system creates traffic congestion and passengers often have to cross lanes of traffic,” he noted. “The new layout will add six lanes, allowing passengers to be dropped off quickly and safely. And with the new indoor baggage claim area, passengers won’t have to wait outside in the elements anymore.”
The project is primarily funded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and state funds, with over 90% of the costs covered by these sources.
While the upgrades are designed to enhance the airport’s appeal, Condie cautioned that they would not necessarily result in increased airline service. He acknowledged the challenges of the airline industry and noted that the airport’s role is limited in attracting new carriers. “The market is complex,” Condie said. “Our goal is to improve the facility and make it as accommodating as possible for local residents, which, in turn, could boost traffic numbers. But ultimately, airlines make their own decisions.”
Currently, Breeze Airways provides service to Santa Ana, California, four days per week, and the airport can accommodate up to two commercial aircraft simultaneously. Condie said that the long-term goal is to expand the airport’s infrastructure so it can handle up to three commercial aircraft on the apron at the same time.
Despite the ongoing construction, Condie reassured the public that airline operations would continue as usual, and the airport’s restaurant, The Bickering Sisters, would remain open throughout the duration of the project.
With an expected completion date of October 2025, the project promises to transform Ogden-Hinckley Airport into a more modern and efficient facility, boosting the city’s appeal as a gateway to both regional and, potentially, international destinations.