Columbia Regional Airport (COU) recently opened its new $23 million terminal. The new facility, which is now fully operational, has the potential to improve air travel for residents and visitors in mid-Missouri and serve as a major economic driver for the region.
The first flight to the new terminal arrived the night of October 25, and the first flight out of the new terminal departed the morning of October 26. The Columbia City Council had given support for the terminal in December 2018, with work beginning in May 2020 and completing in October this year.
Not only is the new 52,000-square-foot terminal more than three times the size of its predecessor, it also has four gates with three passenger boarding bridges, more comfortable seating, increased charging outlets, and workstations for business travelers. New amenities also include a restaurant and bar (opening soon), a mother’s room, a sensory room and an interior Service Animal Relief Area (SARA).
American Airlines currently offers three daily flights to and from Dallas-Fort Worth and two daily flights to and from Chicago and is planning to start twice-daily service to and from Charlotte once passenger demand increases from the pandemic.
Air service at COU impacts a rapidly expanding catchment area with a population of nearly 520,000. COU’s close proximity makes it the best option for air travelers in mid-Missouri and best meets the region’s economic needs.
The airport has also made improvements to its runways and parking lot. In November 2017, the airport reconstructed and lengthened the crosswind runway to 5,500 feet. In December 2021, the airport completed an extension on its primary runway. This extension to 7,400 feet allows for larger aircraft and increased safety areas, which helps landing and taking off during inclement weather. Also, 93 additional parking spaces are being added to the new parking lot just south of the new terminal for passenger convenience.
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