Wilmington International Airport (ILM) has been busy working on a major expansion plan to keep up with its growing number of travelers. Since 2022, passenger traffic has jumped by an impressive 40%, and in July 2024 alone, over 77,000 people passed through ILM’s doors. With numbers like that, it’s no surprise ILM is one of the country’s fastest-growing airports.
Now airport officials have released an animated video that shows the changes that are in the works, and gives us a sense of what the airport will look like a few years.
As ILM grows, so does the need to make things easier and more comfortable for everyone coming and going. Right now, parking can be tricky, and the pick-up and drop-off areas aren’t exactly ideal during those busier times. That’s where the multi-phase expansion plan comes in. It’s a pretty big overhaul that includes road adjustments and lots more parking.
The new parking areas are set to roll out in early 2025, with more following in April. And by July, ILM plans to open a temporary drop-off curb to help ease the flow of traffic. The last phase is where it gets exciting—think an extended commercial curb, a canopy for shade, a brand-new parking garage, and a fresh rental car facility. Not only will these upgrades improve convenience, but they’ll also give ILM a polished new look.
When it’s all done by fall 2026, ILM will be better equipped to welcome everyone passing through, making travel smoother and more enjoyable for all.
Click play below to see the video of what the airport will look like in just a few short years.