Nashville International Airport reveals expansion plans

Nashville, Tenn. — The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority (MNAA) and Mayor Megan Barry unveiled the new look, feel and design of BNA Vision, the growth and expansion plan for Nashville International Airport (BNA). Through video, renderings, a 3-D model, and a dynamic virtual reality simulation, Music City got its first detailed look at the final plans for the renovation of the terminal and new plaza at BNA, including a hotel and transit station to accommodate plans for future light rail.

In July 2016, MNAA first announced the preliminary plan for BNA Vision, releasing conceptual images and articulating the need for a major airport expansion in response to steep passenger increases and robust regional growth. The past year has been a period of intense planning and design, led by Corgan, an acclaimed architecture and design firm internationally known for its expertise in major aviation and commercial projects. Through this process, the original conceptual images have now given way to the final architectural renderings, revealing the actual look, feel and features of the proposed renovation.

Using high-tech video, virtual reality and 3-D modeling, the Airport Authority brings BNA Vision alive in a realistic and accessible fashion, providing the public with an intimate understanding of Nashville’s airport of the future.

Take a virtual 360-degree tour, view renderings and watch the BNA Vision video at https://bnavisionnashville.com.

“A world-class city and a world-class airport go hand-in-hand,” said Nashville Mayor Megan Barry. “Nashville International Airport is a critical component of our region’s continued economic development and our front door for travelers from across the globe. With the inspiration found in BNA Vision, we intend to put the very best of Music City center stage from arrival to departure.  I commend the airport’s Board of Commissioners and staff and all who worked to put together this creative and forward-looking plan.”

In Fiscal Year 2017 ending June 30, more than 13.5 million passengers traveled into and out of BNA, setting an all-time passenger record for the fourth consecutive fiscal year. And the record pace continues, with current projections estimating passenger traffic will exceed 23 million by 2041.

“The airport’s Board of Commissioners is focused on the long-term needs of our airport and the community it serves,” said Bobby Joslin, Chair of the MNAA Board of Commissioners. “BNA’s pace of growth demanded proactive planning, and this capital expansion project is designed to meet the needs of the region’s passengers, both business and leisure travelers, for decades to come. We couldn’t be more pleased with the scope, style and feel of the proposed BNA Vision that emerged from this process.”

“At Nashville International Airport, we are dedicated to creating a travel environment that reflects our city—warm and welcoming, friendly and accessible,” said MNAA Acting President and CEO Doug Kreulen. “With passenger traffic continuing at a record clip, it is critical that we keep pace with our passengers’ needs for safety, convenience, amenities and new nonstop service.  We believe BNA Vision addresses the challenges of our growing region, transforms the airport and helps connect Nashville to the world and the world to Nashville.”

The design unveiled at today’s event featured aesthetic elements celebrating the spirit of Nashville, including the authentic craftsmanship of instruments, especially the acoustic guitar, and reflecting the natural beauty of the city’s many parks and green spaces. The central entrance hall emphasizes the charm and hospitality embedded in the overall design and experienced throughout the terminal. The food, music and culture found at Nashville International Airport will be a seamless extension of the sights, sounds and flavors that make Music City a celebrated destination.

As with all other airport capital improvement projects, no local tax dollars will be used to fund BNA Vision.

BNA is currently served by 13 airlines and offers 450 daily flights. Nashville International Airport provides nonstop air service to more than 50 destinations.