Planning & Zoning Commission approves site plan for airport terminal building

McKINNEY, Texas (Jan. 14, 2025) - Members of the Planning & Zoning Commission approved a site plan for an airport terminal building at the McKinney National Airport during its meeting Tuesday, Jan. 14. City Council voted to support the site plan at its Jan. 7 meeting.

McKinney is uniquely positioned to sustain commercial passenger service, offering convenience to the region and competition in the market that will ultimately benefit residents of McKinney, Collin County, and North Texas. The $72 million terminal project encompasses:

• Passenger Terminal Building: 45,000 sq. ft. facility with 3 gates and the ability to expand to 5 gates.
• Terminal Features: Central concessions with food and beverage options, including quick-service choices.
• Spacious, open hold rooms will offer passenger comfort and convenience.
• Aircraft Parking and Taxiway: Six aircraft parking positions for general and commercial aviation.
• Parking and Vehicle Access: Up to a 1,500-spot parking lot with dedicated access road and on-site car rental facilities.
• Aircraft De-Icing Facility: Dedicated de-icing pad for operational efficiency.
• Fuel Storage: Above-ground jet fuel tanks.
• Supporting Infrastructure: Essential utilities and facilities to ensure smooth operation.

Project funding will come from federal low-interest transportation and infrastructure loans, grant funding from the McKinney Economic Development Corporation and McKinney Community Development Corporation, and ongoing efforts to secure additional federal and state grants.

"Maximizing the commercial value of McKinney National Airport has long been a priority of the City of McKinney and City Council, and this demonstrates their commitment to helping the airport realize its full potential as an asset to the region. As we continue to expand and improve our facilities and services on the east side, we are confident our airport will bring significant economic benefits, including increased job opportunities, new businesses, and enhanced quality of life for our community," said Ken Carley, Director of McKinney National Airport.

The City of McKinney is actively negotiating with two airlines for passenger service. Initial plans estimate 200,000 passengers in the first year, supported by an average of three daily departures. By year five, up to 1 million passengers could be served annually.

The project's design phase is currently underway. Construction is slated to start in May, and commercial service is targeted to begin late 2026.

A public meeting on the draft report of the environmental assessment will be held from 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 16, at the new City Hall, 401 E. Virginia St. in the Fitzhugh Conference Room.

For more information about McKinney National Airport and McKinney Air Center, please visit FlyTKI.com.