Donald Trump has unveiled plans for one of America's most iconic airports that would hide most of the original building. Dulles International Airport near Washington DC, opened in 1962, features a mid-century-modern terminal designed by Finnish-American architect Eero Saarinen, also known for the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. New plans released by the US Department of Transportation (DOT) last week show that much of Saarinen's creation would disappear beneath a new structure.
Design Selection and Renderings
The announcement follows a government request for information issued late last year, attracting proposals from over 30 architecture practices, including Zaha Hadid Architects and Adjaye Associates. Trump said he selected the designs 'after an extensive review,' but no architecture firm has been formally named. Instead, United Airlines assembled the conceptual renderings.
United CEO Scott Kirby said: 'We thank the Trump Administration and the Department of Transportation for their support as we move this transformative project forward and make Dulles a showcase for the nation's capital, setting a new standard for airports across the country.'
Planned Features and Scale
The renderings show a large sloping structure attached to Saarinen's terminal, known for its curved roof suspended over concrete columns. Sloping extensions would stretch outward on either side, with new facilities and a large car park Trump described as 'the largest garage in the world.' DOT officials said the project would add 5 million sq ft (464,515 sq m) of space. New tunnels would replace automated trains that currently move passengers between concourses.
The DOT said work would occur over the next 'several years,' with funding increased by up to $13 billion (£10 billion). In December, Trump called Dulles 'incorrectly designed' and a 'terrible airport.' The terminal, a significant 20th-century airport architecture work, remains a recognisable Washington landmark.
Preservation Promises
Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy insisted the new designs would preserve the old terminal despite encroaching. He said: 'President Trump's work to make D.C. safe and beautiful has already reshaped our nation's capital for the better. But to truly achieve this vision, we need to invest in an international gateway that is worthy of the greatest country on earth.'
He added: 'By partnering with United Airlines and MWAA, we will create thousands of jobs and build a world-class airport filled with stunning architecture, efficient security screenings, hundreds of new flights, and improved mobility – all while preserving Dulles' iconic primary terminal. Say goodbye to those stale concourses, endless walkways, and those absurd mobile lounges, and say hello to a state-of-the-art facility that will inspire millions of flyers for generations to come.'
