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Dallas/Fort Worth Airport (DFW) Opens New Gates in Terminal C

Written by Matthew Justice on Jun 8, 2026
Ribbon cutting in the section of Terminal C at DFW with 13 people behind a ribbon.

Key Takeaways

  • DFW Airport completed the first step of its Terminal C expansion on June 8, 2026, part of the $12 billion DFW Forward program.
  • The ribbon-cutting opened five rebuilt gates and four new gates, adding about 115,000 square feet (10,684 m²) to Terminal C.
  • American Airlines becomes the first major U.S. airline to install electronic boarding gates.
  • The new area includes floor-to-ceiling (dynamic glass) windows, expanded seating, and new concessions.

The first step in the Terminal C expansion at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is now complete. This opening is part of the continuing $12 billion DFW Forward Program. This June 8th ribbon-cutting includes five rebuilt gates and four entirely new gates and adds approximately 115,000 square feet (10,684 m²) to Terminal C. The expanded area includes electronic boarding gates, expanded seating options, new concessions, and other enhancements designed to create an improved customer experience.

These new gates also enable American Airlines to become the first major U.S. airline to install electronic boarding gates.

The new Terminal C "pier," which consists of six modular structures, was built over the past two years away from the terminal, using a modular construction technique to reduce operational impact and expedite construction timelines.

modular design of a terminal showing it move with motorized trailer system. six sections assembled and shown as part of the terminal C.

This terminal expansion coincides with the first of three phases of the Terminal C reconstruction and expansion project. The project is completely rebuilding the terminal, which will include brand-new check-in, security and baggage handling facilities, as well as other amenities important to customers like restrooms, art installations, and restaurant and retail concessions. The new area features floor-to-ceiling (dynamic glass) windows with bright spaces and spacious ceilings.

I am not exactly sure of the new gates, but it appears that gates C26–C34 are all new.

map showing section new section of DFW Terminal C

Lounges in Terminal C

The American Admirals Club and Executive Center near gate C20 is currently the only lounge in Terminal C. There is a spa venue called Spa Here near C14 and a Prayer Room located near C16, but lounges are seriously lacking in Terminal C. To roundout the lounges at DFW, I would love to see an Aspire or Escape Lounge open in Terminal C!

Closing Thoughts

I was in Rome (FCO) last month, and I had a chance to enter the security screening area using my boarding pass. This was the first airport I have ever been to with automated e-gates for entrance into a secure zone, and I look forward to seeing this more in the future from both airlines and airports.