California Construction News staff writer
Ontario International Airport has begun the formal environmental review process for a major long-term expansion under its ONT BOLD (“Building Our Legacy & Destiny”) program, marking the first step toward a new terminal, upgraded facilities and expanded airside infrastructure.
The airport released a Notice of Preparation (NOP) for an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) that will assess potential environmental effects and identify mitigation measures for the proposed project, which is designed to accommodate sustained passenger growth across the Inland Empire.
At the centre of the proposal is a new three-level Terminal 3, spanning approximately 650,000 square feet. The facility would include a new Federal Inspection Services (FIS) area for international processing, expanded passenger and security screening infrastructure, and flexible gate positions equipped with Multiple Aircraft Ramp System (MARS) stands capable of handling either two narrowbody aircraft or one widebody aircraft.
Plans also calls for modernization of existing Terminals 2 and 4, along with major upgrades to terminal roadways, curbside operations, parking facilities, rental car infrastructure and the aircraft apron. A new parking structure is also included in the conceptual scope.
The Ontario International Airport Authority say the project is intended to provide long-term capacity relief while improving operational efficiency and passenger experience.
“Project BOLD is about more than building facilities – it’s about building the future of this airport and the region we serve,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board of Commissioners and Ontario Mayor pro tem. “As demand continues to grow, we have a responsibility to ensure ONT remains convenient, accessible and ready to connect the Inland Empire with the world.”
Officials note that demand at peak travel periods is already exceeding existing terminal design capacity, with future growth expected to require additional gates, concessions, seating areas, parking and processing space.
“ONT BOLD represents a thoughtful, phased approach to meeting the demands of a fast-growing region,” said San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman, vice-president of the OIAA Board. “We’re investing in infrastructure that strengthens our role as a major passenger gateway and global supply chain hub, while maintaining the ease and efficiency travelers value.”
While design details and project costs remain subject to change through the environmental review process, airport officials project the expansion could be delivered over approximately 10 years.
Wapner emphasized that the release of the NOP marks the beginning of public and regulatory consultation, not a final design decision.
“This is the first step in a transparent and collaborative effort to shape ONT’s next chapter,” he said. “We’re committed to listening, engaging and building an airport that reflects the strength and aspirations of our community and our airline partners.”
The announcement comes as Ontario International marks nearly a decade of local control. Since 2016, passenger volumes have grown by nearly 70 per cent, reaching more than seven million travellers annually, positioning ONT among the fastest-growing airports in California.
