Florida Construction News staff writer
Construction of Tampa International Airport’s highly anticipated Airside D terminal has reached another significant milestone, with structural steel framing now underway and the installation of massive shuttle guideway spans connecting the main terminal to the future airside facility.
General contractor Hensel Phelps announced that steel framing has officially begun on the Airside D project, marking a major step toward the terminal’s scheduled completion in June 2029. The company is partnering with GMF Steel Group to deliver the structural steel phase while maintaining a strong focus on safety, efficiency, and quality.
At the same time, crews from Middlesex Corporation have been working overnight to install the bridge superstructure that will carry the airport’s automated passenger shuttle system across George J. Bean Parkway. The guideway will connect the Main Terminal’s new Airside D shuttle station with the future concourse.
The first steel and concrete girders have now been placed atop support piers, creating spans of up to 160 feet over the parkway. The steel girders, lifted in tandem by heavy cranes, weigh as much as 80 tons each, while the accompanying concrete girders tip the scales at up to 70 tons.
Once complete, a concrete deck will be constructed over the center girders to form an emergency access walkway and house two baggage conveyor systems that will transport checked luggage directly from the Main Terminal to aircraft serving Airside D.
The new guideway will support the same automated people mover technology currently being installed at Airsides A, C, and E. Concrete running surfaces will be poured over the outer steel girders to create the tracks on which the shuttle vehicles will operate.
Structural steel installation for Airside D officially began last month, with crews continuing to erect the framework for the new terminal. The project represents one of the largest components of Tampa International Airport’s long-term expansion program, designed to accommodate future passenger growth and expand gate capacity.
The installation of the guideway girders has required overnight closures of George J. Bean Parkway. During the work, motorists traveling to the Red Side of the Main Terminal have been temporarily rerouted through Blue Side lanes and around the terminal complex. Airport officials are encouraging travelers to allow extra travel time during overnight construction and to follow posted detour signs.
When completed in 2029, Airside D will provide additional gates, expanded passenger amenities, and a modern automated shuttle connection, further enhancing Tampa International Airport’s ability to serve the region’s growing travel demand.
