News

AVL opens new baggage claim facility

The new baggage claim is part of the broader AVL Forward project, a comprehensive effort to modernize and expand the airport’s terminal and supporting infrastructure.

By Lightning Reports, Published: April 17, 2026

Asheville Regional Airport will open its new partial baggage claim today, advancing the airport’s ongoing transformation through the AVL Forward project and enhancing the arrival experience for passengers.

Beginning with the first arriving flight Friday morning, all passengers needing baggage claim services will be directed to the new baggage claim facility. Upon arrival, passengers will deplane at the North Concourse, proceed down into the ticket lobby and follow a clearly marked outdoor passenger pathway leading to the new baggage claim.

The opening also brings the relocation of the airport’s Guest Services Center, which will begin serving passengers in the new baggage claim facility the same day. The legacy baggage claim area will close following the final arriving flight on April 16, concluding its service after decades of operation.

This initial opening represents a partial delivery of the full baggage claim project. The remaining portion of the expanded baggage claim facility is expected to open in summer 2027 and will ultimately include three baggage carousels. The new facility and systems will increase AVL’s capacity to handle baggage, allowing for more efficient processing during periods of multiple, larger aircraft arrivals.

“The first phase of our new baggage claim is another major step forward in delivering a modern, efficient airport experience for our passengers,” said Lew Bleiweis, AVL's president and CEO. “As passenger volumes continue to grow, these improvements ensure AVL is prepared to meet demand while maintaining the high level of service our community and visitors expect.”

The new baggage claim is part of the broader AVL Forward project, a comprehensive effort to modernize and expand the airport’s terminal and supporting infrastructure. The project launched in 2019, broke ground on August 11, 2023, and has since reached several key milestones, including the commissioning of the Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS) in June 2025, the opening of the North Ticket Lobby on June 11, 2025, and the debut of the new TSA security checkpoint and North Concourse on June 25, 2025. Phase 2 construction began last October 22.

Looking ahead, the next milestone will occur next month with the opening of new rental car counters. The project is expected to be completed by early 2028.

When complete, the new terminal will be 335,000 square feet, creating a more spacious and efficient environment for travelers. Additionally, a new air traffic control tower is nearing completion and is expected to be commissioned in early summer 2026. As construction progresses, AVL encourages passengers to allow extra time when navigating the terminal. For more information, visit flyavl.com/AVL_forward