Trump unveils $22 billion plan to remake Washington Dulles airport

President Donald Trump unveiled a sweeping $22 billion plan Wednesday to overhaul Washington Dulles International Airport, aiming to transform the facility into one of the world's best.

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It’s considered one of the worst airports anywhere in the world, we’re going to make it maybe the best with some hard work.

"It's considered one of the worst airports anywhere in the world, we're going to make it maybe the best with some hard work," Trump declared at the White House, flanked by United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy. He described the airport as "really horribly-thought of" and in need of a "major and long overdue renovation and reconstruction."

The ambitious project includes 5 million square feet of new or renovated airport space. Transportation Secretary Duffy had previously confirmed the federal government's $22 billion investment. This plan ranks among the largest U.S. airport overhauls ever proposed. While funded through municipal bonds, the significant investment raises questions about potential impacts on flight costs for passengers.

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It’s considered one of the worst airports anywhere in the world, we’re going to make it maybe the best with some hard work.

Dulles, located about 25 miles from the U.S. capital, opened in 1962 and was designed by Finnish architect Eero Saarinen. The distinctive terminal building, with its sweeping roof, will be preserved. United Airlines, the largest carrier at Dulles handling about 70% of its traffic, is a key partner in the project. Despite criticism, Dulles experienced significant growth last year, becoming the fastest-growing large U.S. airport by passenger traffic, handling a record 29 million passengers in 2025.

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It’s considered one of the worst airports anywhere in the world, we’re going to make it maybe the best with some hard work.