In a remarkable overnight transformation, Portland International Airport (PDX) has unveiled its brand-new main terminal building, offering travelers a modern and efficient experience. The extensive renovations include repositioning ticketing counters, security checkpoints, and exit lanes within the spacious and aesthetically pleasing terminal.

The most noticeable change for travelers is the reorientation of the ticketing counters, which have been transformed into "islands" that stretch from the entrance to the center of the terminal. This new layout allows for easy passage through the terminal for those who don't need to utilize these services. Travelers in need of printing boarding passes or checking bags can easily locate their respective airline's island, some of which even feature self-serve counter stations for seamless bag drop.

Moving beyond the ticketing area, travelers will find a row of new shops and businesses adjacent to the indoor forest that serves as the terminal's central heart. The mezzanine, a two-story structure, dominates the far side of the building, offering retail shops on the lower level and the Loyal Legion beer hall on the upper level, complete with stairs and stadium seating. This pre-security area replaces the smaller pre-security shops and food court that were closed off during the construction phase.

Previously, travelers were accustomed to heading left or right from the old ticket counter to access the security checkpoints on either side of the terminal. However, with the introduction of the new terminal design, these areas have been closed off for construction and will be rebuilt in due time. The new security stations are now located at the rear of the terminal, so travelers are advised to navigate back to the mezzanine before proceeding. The direction of travel remains the same, with a left turn leading to the B and C gates, and a right turn leading to the D and E gates. These updated checkpoints are specifically designed to expedite the screening process.

During the remodeling process, the post-security concourse connector corridor, which allowed travelers to move freely between the B and C gates and the D and E gates, was closed off. However, the new terminal introduces a new concourse connector situated under the back of the mezzanine, ensuring convenient access between concourses.

While temporary bypass corridors were installed to facilitate travel between the concourses during construction, they will remain operational for another 18 months until the old security checkpoints are rebuilt. As a result, the B and E gates are temporarily disconnected from the post-security atriums, with detours available from the C and D concourses to reach them.

Notably, all baggage claim operations have remained unaffected by the renovations. Once the terminal construction is completed, new escalators will be added near the new exit lanes for seamless access to the baggage claim area. Currently, travelers can use the existing escalators in the old front check-in hall to reach baggage claim.

PDX strongly recommends that travelers arrive early due to the unfamiliarity of the new layout. With its innovative design, the airport aims to create a more enjoyable and stress-free experience for all passengers. As the construction progresses and the new terminal takes shape, PDX remains committed to providing efficient travel solutions for visitors and residents alike.