Dulles Unveils New 14-Gate Concourse

Dulles International Airport held a grand opening ceremony on November 9 for Concourse E, a new facility built to add capacity and amenities as passenger numbers grow. The airport expects the concourse to begin welcoming travelers on November 10. United Airlines is to announce the opening details and the departure time of the first flight.

The 435,000-square-foot concourse has 14 gates for United, direct access to the AeroTrain and expanded seating and restrooms. Its layout is designed to spread passengers around waiting areas, and elevated walkways serve international travelers. The gates can accommodate international flights.

About 44,000 square feet is devoted to restaurants and retail. Options include the Dos Toros taqueria, Good Company’s doughnut-and-café shop, Bonchon and Honor Brewing, along with airport duty-free stores and a video-game lounge. The facility also has a nearly 40,000-square-foot United Club with seating for more than 600 customers.

Airport officials have said more space is needed, especially for United’s connecting passengers and during busy arrival and departure periods. United chief executive Scott Kirby said in December 2024 that the additional international-capable gates would allow the airline to double its international service from Dulles.

Construction began in November 2023 as a joint project of the airport authority and United. Concourse E is the first phase of a four-phase plan within a broader airport modernization program expected to receive more than $20 billion in investment. Later phases are expected to add as many as 36 United gates and an international customs-processing area for connecting passengers.