Construction of the new terminal at Mobile International Airport (BFM) is tracking under budget and remains on schedule for substantial completion by August 2026, the Mobile Airport Authority announced last week.

MAA Chairman E. Luckett Robinson provided the update during the Authority’s monthly board meeting, noting that early construction bids last year had pushed the estimated cost above $400 million. Per a news release, the Authority conducted a detailed review to understand the increase and identify a more cost-effective path forward.

“When last year’s bids exceeded expectations, our team had to take a close look at every aspect of the project,” Robinson said in the release. “We needed to understand what had changed and identify a path that kept the project within its intended budget.”

According to the release, the interior build-out package was rebid this year, resulting in significantly lower pricing than the previous year. Combined with other design refinements, the project is now tracking about $19 million under the approved $381 million budget, with a current estimated cost of approximately $362 million. The scope and functionality of the terminal remain unchanged.

MAA Executive Director Andy Wilson said the review process was key to keeping the project on course.

“Our priority has always been to deliver a safe, efficient facility built in a responsible and cost-effective way,” Wilson said. “The cost savings reflect the careful review and coordination that went into this process. The Authority is shifting its focus to the delivery of a modern and operationally efficient passenger terminal. These improvements will provide an enhanced level of customer service and elevated travel experience for visitors and citizens of Mobile and Baldwin Counties.”

Construction continues to advance across the site, including recent access to the elevated road, which is accelerating activity. An additional 100 workers are expected next week as interior construction ramps up through the winter months.

The Authority plans to open the terminal in fall 2026, with commercial flights expected by November. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and American Airlines have announced plans to begin service from Mobile Regional Airport (MOB) to the new Mobile International Airport once operations commence.