Charleston airport breaks ground on $105M expansion

Ross Norton // July 15, 2025//

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$105 million West Gates Expansion breaks ground at CHS
Project adds 40,000 square feet of passenger space and four new gates
Includes space for retail, dining and international arrivals
Completion expected by end of 2026 with 15% gate capacity boost

Charleston International Airport broke ground July 14 on its West Gates Expansion project, a step airport officials say marks a major milestone in the CHS’s ongoing growth and commitment to meeting the Lowcountry’s increasing air travel demand.

The $105 million project will add more than 40,000 square feet of new passenger space and will feature four new gates, including large hold room areas, according to a news release. The expansion also includes nearly 4,000 square feet dedicated to food, beverage and retail offerings, alongside a variety of new traveler amenities.

In addition to passenger services, the project will introduce 23,000 square feet of operations space and will be equipped with international arrival capabilities. The new gates will connect directly to CHS’s federal inspection station, allowing for the seamless processing of international flights, the release said.

When completed, the West Gates Expansion will increase the airport’s total gate capacity by 15%. Substantial completion of the project is anticipated by the end of 2026, according to the release.

“The West Gates Expansion is about more than additional gates,” Elliott Summey, president and CEO of the Charleston International Airport, said in the release. “It’s about strengthening economic growth, expanding connectivity and ensuring CHS continues to deliver the level of service and experience our community and visitors expect. We are proud to begin this next chapter for our airport and our region.”

Helen Hill, chair of the Charleston Regional Aviation Authority Board, added, “This expansion is a critical investment in the future of the greater Charleston area and beyond. We are building the infrastructure today that ensures we’re ready to meet the needs of tomorrow’s travelers, both domestic and international, with comfort, efficiency and Charleston’s signature hospitality.”

Construction activities will continue through 2026 with minimal disruption to current operations, the release said.