United Airlines and the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) announced the ongoing development of Concourse E at Washington Dulles International Airport. This $500 million project, covering 435,000 square feet, will feature 14 gates, a new 40,000-square-foot United Club, and advanced customer amenities. Completion is expected by late 2026, significantly enhancing the infrastructure at United Airlines’ Washington Dulles hub.
United Airlines is the largest carrier in the Washington, D.C. area, employing over 8,000 locals and offering the most flights and destinations in the region. This expansion is part of United’s broader commitment to growth, made possible through collaboration with MWAA and funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law supports various airport improvement initiatives, including Dulles’ modernization, which is crucial for United Airlines’ Washington Dulles operations.
“Washington Dulles has emerged as a global gateway and these new investments will help deliver the world-class facility that our employees and customers deserve,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “Today is one of many milestone celebrations to come in United’s long-term commitment in advancing our Dulles hub, further solidifying United Airlines Washington Dulles as a premier travel hub.”
The Concourse E project is a cornerstone of MWAA’s master plan for Dulles. It is designed exclusively for United and will house state-of-the-art gates accommodating widebody and mainline planes introduced under the United Next plan. The concourse will also connect directly to the airport’s Aerotrain system for seamless passenger movement, making Washington Dulles even more accessible for travelers.
Expanded Flight Options and Local Growth
United has invested over $32 billion in infrastructure, people, and technology since 2021, with the Dulles expansion representing a key element of the airline’s growth strategy. United currently operates 250 daily departures from Dulles, a number set to rise to nearly 280 by April 2025. This year, the airline added 13 new domestic routes from Dulles, including nonstop flights to Anchorage, Alaska, and Mobile, Alabama. Additionally, nonstop service to Dakar, Senegal, begins in May 2025.
“Dulles serves as a critical economic development hub for Virginia and helps travelers get where they need to go,” said Senator Tim Kaine. Senator Mark Warner also emphasized the project’s importance, saying, “I look forward to seeing Concourse E come to life with 14 additional gates that will increase flight options and state-of-the-art facilities that will improve the experience of air travelers.”
United’s Dulles operations extend beyond travel, playing a key role in the local economy. The airline plans to open a 20,000-square-foot flight attendant training center near Dulles in 2025 and hire over 700 people in the Washington, D.C., area as part of its larger plan to add 9,000 employees systemwide in 2024.
Community Impact and Future Connections
United’s employees actively contribute to the region, supporting nonprofits, mentoring students, and raising millions for local causes. In 2023, the airline donated nearly $4 million to organizations across the D.C. area. United also supports national initiatives, including aiding refugee evacuations and helping to address supply chain challenges, such as delivering baby formula during shortages.
As part of its ongoing commitment to the region, United has partnered with local sports teams, becoming the official global airline for the Washington Capitals, Mystics, and Wizards. It is also working with Monumental Sports & Entertainment to revitalize downtown D.C.
United’s role in connecting the Washington, D.C., area to global destinations continues to expand. The airline will soon add new nonstop routes to Nice, France, and Venice, Italy, further solidifying Dulles’ position as a transatlantic gateway.
