Norfolk International Airport (ORF) is undertaking the largest modernization endeavor since the opening of the existing departures terminal in 1974. This includes phased projects that will enhance the passenger experience and increase operational efficiencies for the airlines, tenants and Norfolk Airport Authority.
As the major airport serving coastal Virginia and northeast North Carolina, ORF served nearly 5 million passengers and more than 75,000 flight operations in 2024. Skytrax, whose annual ratings are a global benchmark of airport standards, has awarded its 4-Star Regional Airport rating for two consecutive years, and honored ORF as the best in North America (No. 4 worldwide) on its 2025 ranking of the World’s Best Domestic Airports.
International Arrivals
ORF to Add Modernized International Arrivals Facility
In conjunction with the Concourse A expansion project, a new U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Federal Inspection Services facility is being constructed. Designed in coordination with CBP to process international passengers, it will also include a Global Entry processing center. The project is underway with completion by early 2026.
Concourse A
Concourse A Expansion Will Meet Growing Demand
Concourse A will add three new gates and hold rooms, as well as new restrooms and a pet relief area. This added capacity will replace ground loading facilities and provide gate-connected overnight aircraft parking. The project is underway with an estimated completion in early 2026.
Entrance Intersection
A New Airport Entrance Intersection Is Direct and Easy
A realigned entrance intersection's four-way traffic signals will more easily direct drivers to Arrivals, Departures and Parking when accessing ORF using Norview Avenue or Robin Hood Road. Work began in July 2025, followed soon after by the permanent closure of Runway 14/32, a smaller, seldom used runway ORF no longer needs. The runway’s removal will allow for additional development on and adjacent to the airport that will generate new tax revenues for the cities of Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
Observation Area
Upgrading the Best Seat in the House
There’s something special about watching planes take off and land, and ORF’s new Observation Area will make that pastime better than ever. Its location will offer an expanded parking lot, nearby restrooms, spaces for food trucks and even a children’s playground – all with spectacular views of Runway 05/23. Work is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is estimated to be finished in fall 2027.
Car Rental
A Modernized Rental Facility
A new rental car facility will be built south of the Departures Terminal to consolidate all rental car companies into one location with rentals, pickups and return service functions taking place under one roof. Quick turnaround (QTA) facilities are efficient for both customers and rental car agencies and reduce the need to take cars offsite for servicing. Relocating car rentals will also return existing garage spaces for public parking use. We've cleared the site with more work scheduled to begin this fall in preparation for an expected opening in late 2027.
Hotel
New Hotel Landing at ORF
Sometimes you just need a place to lay your head, unpack and unwind before or after your trip. That’s why we’re bringing an onsite hotel to Norfolk International Airport.
This new amenity will be connected to ORF’s Departures Terminal by way of an indoor walkway to allow for maximum convenience, come rain or shine. Its strategic location and features will enhance your travel experience whether you’re arriving ahead to catch an early morning departure or unexpectedly need a room following a late change in flight plans.
The property will feature a national hotel brand and include a restaurant & bar, meeting spaces and other common elements of a full-service hotel. Check back here for updates on the timing of this exciting development.
Moving Walkways
A Seamless Journey is Here
To facilitate passenger transfer between the Arrivals and Departures terminals, moving walkways were installed on the pedestrian bridge between the two buildings.
This has long been one of our customers’ most-requested improvements at ORF. Work was completed in August 2025.
On Approach
Terminal Development Projects
Terminal Development Projects are undertaken to increase airport operating efficiencies for the passengers, airlines, tenants and TSA. Construction dates are not yet determined but plans tentatively include:
- A larger, modernized check-in lobby
- A single checkpoint to serve both concourses
- Consolidated Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS)
- Expanded baggage make-up area
- New shipping and receiving area
Recently Completed
Recently Completed
Several key projects have already been completed as part of ORF’s modernization efforts, providing immediate benefits for passengers, airlines, and the community.
These improvements include:
- Runway 05/23 Rehabilitation – full resurfacing for safety and efficiency
- Park & Wait Lot – 80-space lot offers free, convenient passenger pickup