The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has announced a $40 million renovation project aimed at improving passenger flow and preparing for continued growth.

Called the “Central Core Enhancement,” the project begins June 1, 2026, with completion expected by December 2027. The work will expand terminal entrances, upgrade elevators and escalators, and reduce congestion inside the airport.

“You can’t afford to wait,” said CEO Doug Kreulen.

Passenger growth is driving the changes. What was once projected to hit 30 million travelers annually has now been revised to 40 million by 2038, with nearly 4 million passengers expected in a single peak month. Traffic at BNA has more than doubled over the past decade.

The renovation will increase escalators from six to sixteen, add a new Level 4 landing, and install a third elevator. Existing elevators will also be replaced with larger, faster models to double capacity.

Travelers should plan ahead. The main escalators, elevators, and sky bridge will be closed for about a year and a half during construction. Side access points will remain open, and the airport will provide extra staff, signage, and updates to help passengers navigate.

“It’s a flow thing, try to keep them moving as fast as possible,” Kreulen said.

The project also sets the stage for a potential second terminal along Donelson Pike, helping meet long-term demand.

During construction, the central atrium art installation, “The Unscalable Rampart of Time” by Jacob Hashimoto, will be temporarily removed and later reinstalled in a smaller format.

The project will be funded through bonds, aviation grants, and airport revenue sources, with no local tax dollars used.