The Provo Airport is undergoing one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in Utah’s history — a $138 million expansion that will transform it from a growing regional hub into a full international airport. With Utah County’s population booming and the 2034 Salt Lake City Winter Olympic Games on the horizon, this project is positioned to have a massive impact on travel, the economy, and the daily lives of residents.

Why the Provo Airport Expansion Matters

In just the past 12–14 months, Provo Airport has experienced unprecedented growth unmatched by any other U.S. regional airport. Currently operating with only five gates and limited TSA check-in counters, the airport has already become a popular alternative to Salt Lake City International (SLC).

But the expansion project will change everything:

• 24–32 TSA check-in counters (up from just 5)

• 10 total gates

• 8 jet bridge terminal ladders for modern boarding

• Dedicated customs facility to enable international flights

• Ongoing operations with 5 gates remaining open throughout construction

• Temporary travel systems in place to minimize delays during the 3-year construction window

By late 2028, Provo Airport will no longer be just a regional convenience — it will be a full international gateway for Utah County and beyond.

Construction Timeline & Phases

The expansion is carefully phased to allow continuous operations:

Apron expansion (Phases 1 & 2): Underway now, with completion expected Fall 2025.
Terminal expansion (Phases 3–9): Scheduled from Fall 2025 through late 2028
Snow Removal Equipment (SRE) Building: Under construction, completion expected in 2026.

Total Cost: $138 million

Funding: Secured through airport grants, operational revenue, and external sources — not local city tax dollars.

 Provo Airport Goes International

The most exciting part of the expansion is Provo’s evolution into an international airport. With customs facilities under construction, Provo will soon be capable of handling international arrivals and departures.

Benefits of International Status:

New global destinations: Direct flights to Canada, Mexico, and beyond.

Stronger economy: Easier access for global businesses and investors.

Tourism boost: International visitors headed directly to Provo, Sundance, and southern Utah attractions.

Olympic readiness: The Salt Lake Olympics in 2034 will bring an influx of global travelers, and Provo will help absorb demand.

Airlines & Flights at Provo Airport

Provo Airport continues to expand not just in size, but also in the number of airlines and routes it offers. Travelers can already enjoy convenient flights with major carriers like Allegiant Air and Breeze Airways, connecting Utah County directly to destinations across the West and beyond. As the expansion progresses and international facilities come online, additional routes and airlines are expected to join the lineup.

Because flight schedules and airline partnerships are constantly changing, we recommend visiting the official airport website for the most up-to-date information on routes and destinations: airport.provo.gov.

Utah County’s Explosive Growth

The timing of this expansion is no coincidence — it’s directly tied to Utah County’s population surge.

Current Growth:

• Utah County added 21,853 new residents between July 2023–July 2024 — more than 43% of Utah’s statewide growth during that period.

• Salt Lake County added only ~12,000 in the same timeframe, meaning Utah County is outpacing Salt Lake in growth.

Projections:

• Utah County is expected to double in population by 2060, reaching 1.6 million residents.

• The county could ultimately surpass Salt Lake County in population size within the next few decades.

• Much of this growth comes from the Silicon Slopes tech corridor, a young population, and sustained net migration.

This unprecedented population boom underscores why the Provo Airport expansion is not just a luxury — it’s a necessity.

Connection to the 2034 Salt Lake Winter Olympics

Salt Lake City is preparing to host the 2034 Winter Olympic Games, and Provo Airport’s new facilities will be a critical asset.

• International travelers will be able to fly directly into Provo instead of overwhelming Salt Lake City International.

• Provo offers closer access to key attractions like Sundance Resort, Provo Canyon, and southern Utah national parks.

• The Olympics will showcase Utah to the world — and Provo’s new airport will be front and center in that global narrative.

Economic Impact of the Expansion

The expansion is expected to deliver tens of millions in annual economic impact, creating new jobs and strengthening Utah County’s tourism and business sectors.

• Passenger traffic is projected to nearly double over the next decade.

• Expansion supports more direct routes for both leisure and business travelers.

• The presence of customs will enable cargo and freight opportunities, further fueling regional commerce.

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Will Provo Airport really become an international airport?
Yes. With customs facilities under construction, Provo is expected to begin international operations after 2028, opening direct flights to destinations abroad.

2. How is the Provo Airport expansion funded?
The $138 million project is funded through federal airport grants and airport-generated revenue, not through local city tax dollars.

3. How many gates will Provo Airport have after expansion?
The airport will expand from 5 gates to 10 total gates, including 8 jet bridge systems.

4. When will construction be finished?
The expansion will be phased through Fall 2025–Late 2028.

5. How does Utah County growth compare to Salt Lake County?
Utah County is growing nearly twice as fast as Salt Lake County and is projected to surpass it in population over the coming decades.

6. What does the Salt Lake Olympics mean for Provo Airport?
The 2034 Winter Olympic Games will bring global visitors to Utah, and Provo Airport’s new international capacity will provide vital additional travel options.

Final Thoughts

The Provo Airport expansion is more than just an infrastructure project — it’s the foundation for Utah County’s future. With international flights, Olympic readiness, and the fastest population growth in the state, Provo is on track to become one of the most important travel and economic hubs in the Mountain West.

By 2028, Utah County residents won’t just be watching airplanes take off — they’ll be boarding them for destinations across the globe. To learn more about airlines and flights coming to the Provo Airport check out their website.