Airport Expansions Provide Major Lift to New Mexico Business and Leisure Travel
Ambitious airport development projects across New Mexico are benefiting tourism initiatives, and the businesses that rely on air travel and aviation partnerships to drive the state’s economy.
Through extensive upgrades like terminal overhauls, new flight routes, and expanded parking and dining, airports of every size in New Mexico are strengthening their role as engines of economic development.
In This Article
Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ)
Albuquerque International Sunport, New Mexico’s busiest airport features 22 gates for commercial carriers and service to more than 30 nonstop domestic destinations.
Since 2023, the bustling airport in Albuquerque has added flights to Long Beach, California; Nashville, Tennessee; Washington, D.C.; and Angel Fire Airport, a unique seasonal route supporting in-state tourism. In 2024, Sun Country Airlines became the airport’s eighth major commercial airline carrier, expanding leisure travel options with a low-cost carrier model.
A new food hall opened in late 2024 as part of the Sunport’s three-year, $90 million terminal renovation. The entire project, expected to be completed this year, marks the airport’s first major terminal update in 30 years and reflects a commitment to highlighting local businesses and voices.
“These investments are about more than improving infrastructure; they are about telling the story of who we are,” says Deputy Director Manny Manriquez. “By showcasing local culinary talent and recipes, handcrafted art, jewelry and other unmistakable New Mexican products, we’re not only enhancing the passenger experience but also supporting local businesses and artists.”
Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF)
A major expansion is making it faster and easier for travelers to get to and from Northern New Mexico via the Santa Fe Regional Airport, which is the second-busiest commercial airport in the state. A little over three years after breaking ground on a major expansion and renovation, the airport has completed the first phase of improvements.
The initial phase included a bigger terminal, additional paved parking, an outdoor patio and dog relief area. The airport will also feature live music and artwork for sale by local artists.
With service to Dallas, Phoenix and Denver, the airport has seen an increase in passengers and revenue during the past three years.
The second phase of the renovation on the south side of the airport recently began, removing two buildings to make room for the terminal expansion. The expansion will include about 26,000 more square feet for additional boarding gates.
“As the airport serving the state’s capital city and a regional center for tourism and recreation, Santa Fe has a great opportunity to play a role in driving growth in the region,” says Jimmy Gunn, interim airport manager.
Las Cruces International Airport (LRU)
In 2025, the Las Cruces City Council adopted the Las Cruces International Airport Master Plan and Layout Plan, which aims to create an airport that acts as a thriving gateway to Las Cruces and southern New Mexico.
For the first time in the airport’s forecast, Las Cruces received approval for interstate passenger air service. The plan also includes infrastructure priorities, cooperation with the Las Cruces Innovation and Industrial Park, and the continued pursuit of funding opportunities. The airport received $2 million for infrastructure improvements during this year’s legislative session.
In 2023, Advanced Air began commuter service from Las Cruces to Albuquerque, marking the return of commercial passenger flights from the airport after 18 years.
In addition to investing in commercial air service, the airport has critical military and aerospace partnerships, as well as medical flights and an active flight school that contribute to the airport’s role in supporting the state’s economy, says Andy Hume, airport director.
Gallup Municipal Airport (GUP)
The City of Gallup in northwestern New Mexico has used a Rural Airport Service Enhancement Grant to support direct flights to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. With the support of the New Mexico Department of Transportation’s Aviation Division, the city is also using the grants for flights to and from Las Vegas and to double the number of flights to Phoenix.
A new terminal for Gallup Municipal Airport is in the design phase, and the city is working with partners to create a Foreign Trade Zone that would allow inspections of international imports in Gallup, improving the city’s position as a hub for business logistics and industrial development.
Four Corners Regional Airport (FMN)
In May 2025, Four Corners Regional Airport in northwestern New Mexico launched daily nonstop United Express service to United’s Denver International Airport hub. This new service connects Farmington, the economic center of New Mexico’s Four Corners, with United Airlines’ Denver hub, providing access to the carrier’s global network spanning six continents. The daily round-trip flights are the first commercial flights from the Four Corners Regional Airport in seven years.
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