Lexington, Kentucky, December 12, 2025
Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky, has revealed an extensive expansion plan to improve regional connectivity and accommodate rising passenger numbers. The project includes significant upgrades to infrastructure, terminal enhancements, and new flight services, such as nonstop flights to Sarasota and New York City. The expansion aims to bolster economic growth and enhance the travel experience for all passengers.
Lexington, Kentucky
Blue Grass Airport Unveils Major Expansion Plans to Enhance Regional Connectivity
Blue Grass Airport in Lexington, Kentucky, has announced a comprehensive expansion plan aimed at accommodating projected passenger growth and improving regional connectivity. The initiative includes significant infrastructure upgrades, terminal enhancements, and the introduction of new flight services.
Infrastructure Upgrades
The expansion plan features several key projects:
- Parking and Roadway Expansion: Over 815 new parking spaces will be added, along with a second covered walkway to the terminal, a new exit plaza, and upgraded traffic lanes. Construction is underway and expected to be completed by spring 2026.
- Air Traffic Control Tower Relocation: The existing tower, built in 1972, will be relocated to facilitate future development and modernize operations.
- Terminal Expansion: Additional gates will be constructed to handle more flights and offer enhanced amenities for passengers and staff, contingent upon the successful relocation of the air traffic control tower.
New Flight Services
To meet increasing demand, Blue Grass Airport has introduced new flight services:
- Nonstop Flights to Sarasota, Florida: Allegiant Air began offering twice-weekly flights to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport on April 3, 2025. The service operates on Thursdays and Sundays, with a flight duration of approximately two hours.
- Nonstop Flights to New York City: Delta Air Lines resumed daily flights to LaGuardia Airport on May 7, 2025, marking the first year-round service to New York City since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Technological Enhancements
In November 2025, Blue Grass Airport launched GoodMaps, an advanced indoor navigation tool designed to assist passengers with step-free routing and audio guidance throughout the terminal. This service aims to enhance the travel experience, particularly for individuals with disabilities.
Passenger Growth
In 2024, Blue Grass Airport set a new passenger record, serving 1,571,805 travelers—a 16.1% increase from 2023. This growth is attributed to the addition of new flights and increased demand for air travel in the region.
Economic Impact
The airport’s expansion is expected to bolster the local economy by supporting over 4,700 jobs, contributing $180 million in annual payroll, and generating approximately $709 million in annual economic output. The proximity of Blue Grass Airport to major cities like Cincinnati and Louisville enhances its role as a key economic asset for central Kentucky.
Background
Blue Grass Airport has been serving central Kentucky for 75 years, offering nonstop and connecting flights to numerous destinations worldwide. The recent expansion efforts reflect the airport’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of travelers and supporting regional economic development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the key components of Blue Grass Airport’s expansion plan?
The expansion plan includes parking and roadway upgrades, relocation of the air traffic control tower, terminal expansion, and the introduction of new flight services.
When is the parking and roadway expansion expected to be completed?
The construction is underway and is expected to be completed by spring 2026.
Which airlines are offering new flights from Blue Grass Airport?
Allegiant Air and Delta Air Lines have introduced new flight services from Blue Grass Airport.
What is the purpose of the GoodMaps indoor navigation tool?
GoodMaps provides step-free routing and audio guidance to assist passengers, particularly those with disabilities, in navigating the terminal more easily.
How has passenger traffic changed at Blue Grass Airport recently?
In 2024, the airport served 1,571,805 passengers, marking a 16.1% increase from 2023.
What is the economic impact of Blue Grass Airport on the local community?
The airport supports over 4,700 jobs, contributes $180 million in annual payroll, and generates approximately $709 million in annual economic output.
Key Features of Blue Grass Airport’s Expansion
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Parking and Roadway Expansion | Adding over 815 new parking spaces, a second covered walkway to the terminal, a new exit plaza, and upgraded traffic lanes. Completion expected by spring 2026. |
| Air Traffic Control Tower Relocation | Moving the existing tower to facilitate future development and modernize operations. |
| Terminal Expansion | Constructing additional gates to handle more flights and offer enhanced amenities, contingent upon the successful relocation of the air traffic control tower. |
| Nonstop Flights to Sarasota, Florida | Allegiant Air began twice-weekly flights to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport on April 3, 2025. Service operates on Thursdays and Sundays, with a flight duration of approximately two hours. |
| Nonstop Flights to New York City | Delta Air Lines resumed daily flights to LaGuardia Airport on May 7, 2025, marking the first year-round service to New York City since the COVID-19 pandemic. |
| GoodMaps Indoor Navigation Tool | Launched in November 2025, GoodMaps provides step-free routing and audio guidance to assist passengers, particularly those with disabilities, in navigating the terminal more easily. |
| Passenger Growth | In 2024, the airport served 1,571,805 passengers, a 16.1% increase from 2023. |
| Economic Impact | The airport supports over 4,700 jobs, contributes $180 million in annual payroll, and generates approximately $709 million in annual economic output. |
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
