Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12


September 4th, 2026

Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12

I recently had the opportunity to see the newest part of the Punta Gorda Airport expansion firsthand. This included the newly opened Departure Gates 7 through 12 at the Bailey Terminal.

The gates opened to passengers in August as part of the airport’s ongoing Bailey Terminal Expansion. For anyone familiar with PGD, the new space is a noticeable change. Large windows bring natural light into the gate area and provide views of aircraft outside. Additionally, the expanded waiting area gives passengers more room to move and relax.Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12

A Closer Look at the Punta Gorda Airport Expansion

The new gate area also includes additional charging stations and new restrooms with baby changing stations, purse and luggage hooks, and in-sink hand dryers. Furthermore, Punta Gorda Airport also lists a mother’s room, family restrooms and an adult changing station among the new amenities.

Another change happens outside the terminal. According to PGD, aircraft can now be positioned closer to the departure gates, making boarding more convenient for passengers.

And the work is not finished.Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12

PGD says the next phase will include new Departure Gates 5 and 6, a new TSA checkpoint, a Wolfgang Puck restaurant and additional food and beverage concepts. When the current phase is complete, the Bailey Terminal is expected to have 12 gates.

The overall project includes approximately 51,800 square feet of expansion space and another 22,000 square feet of renovated space. Punta Gorda Airport currently lists the terminal expansion budget at approximately $44 million, including design and construction. In addition, completion is expected in May 2027.

Why PGD’s Growth Matters to Charlotte County

The expansion comes as passenger traffic at Punta Gorda Airport continues to grow.

Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12PGD recorded 2,282,002 passengers in 2025, up 18.5% from the previous record of 1,925,128 passengers in 2024.

The airport is also an important part of Charlotte County’s broader economic picture. According to PGD, a 2022 Florida Department of Transportation economic impact study estimated that the airport supports 11,319 jobs and $1.7 billion in total economic output.

For Charlotte County, seeing the new gates open is a visible sign of the investment taking place at one of our region’s major transportation and economic assets.

And after getting a first look inside, it is clear that there is Punta Gorda Airport Expansion: First Look at Gates 7-12still more to come.

Sources

Punta Gorda Airport: New Departure Gates 7-12 Now Open
Punta Gorda Airport: Bailey Terminal Expansion FAQs
Punta Gorda Airport: 2025 Passenger Traffic