Work has finished on the expansion and modernization of Syracuse Hancock International Airport, a project aimed at improving passenger experience and supporting economic growth in Central New York. The airport received $20 million from Governor Kathy Hochul’s $230 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization Competition. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to prepare the region’s transportation infrastructure for increased traffic and economic changes.
The upgrades include an expanded North Concourse with more seating, new concession areas, and better passenger flow. Renovations to the second floor near gate 15 have enlarged the Federal Inspection Station facility, helping the airport maintain its international status.
Governor Hochul stated, “Central New York is on the precipice of a new era of unprecedented growth and economic transformation that will make it a national model and it’s imperative that our transportation infrastructure is ready for the challenge. The improvements we have made to Syracuse Hancock International Airport give Central New York the first-class travel hub it deserves and will provide visitors with a wonderful first impression that will keep them coming back again and again, further fueling the region’s historic growth.”
Marie Therese Dominguez, Commissioner of the New York State Department of Transportation, said, “Thanks to the leadership of Governor Hochul, New York State is making historic investments in our upstate airports — transforming them into modern gateways, welcoming visitors from all over the world and fueling tourism and economic growth. Nowhere is that more evident than in Syracuse, where the Governor is investing in transformative transportation infrastructure — from I-81 to Syracuse Hancock International Airport, where we have created a world-class facility that will welcome the travelers of today and help usher in the exciting future that awaits Central New York.”
Alongside these improvements at the airport itself, work has also been completed on rehabilitating bridges along Airport Boulevard (Colonel Eileen Collins Boulevard) over Interstate 81 at a cost of $10.5 million. These upgrades are expected to ease travel to and from Syracuse Hancock International Airport.
Syracuse Hancock was one of nine upstate airports awarded funding through this competition announced by Governor Hochul in 2022. The goal was to support modernization projects for commercial service airports across upstate New York.
Since opening in 1949, Syracuse Hancock International Airport has served as an important regional hub for both domestic and international flights. Recent years have seen significant increases in passenger numbers: over three million passengers traveled through the airport in 2024—a rise of 5.2 percent compared to 2023—and enplanements grew from about 841,000 in 2021 to nearly 1.5 million by 2024. According to state studies, annual economic impact from airport operations now exceeds $864 million.
The recent project added more than 4,000 square feet to the North Concourse—used by around 40 percent of all passengers each year—allowing for improved circulation space as well as expanded amenities such as seating areas and concessions. Energy efficiency measures were included through dynamic window panels for natural lighting as well as advanced lighting controls; high-efficiency equipment aims to improve sustainability.
Upgrades at Customs and Border Protection’s Federal Inspection Station ensure compliance with current standards while maintaining international operations capability for both passengers and cargo; new technology enables processing up to 200 passengers per hour. Other additions include a replacement jet bridge, elevator tower installation, baggage carousel updates, additional boarding space, improved wayfinding lighting controls, and support systems for hearing-impaired travelers.
This latest work builds on previous terminal renovations completed in 2018 which expanded main terminal facilities with features like an exterior façade upgrade.
Micron Technology’s planned investment—up to $100 billion over two decades—in Onondaga County was noted as complementary context for these infrastructure improvements; Micron plans a major semiconductor manufacturing campus nearby which could further boost demand at Syracuse Hancock International Airport.
State Senator Rachel May commented: “The Syracuse Hancock International Airport is an important hub for travelers across Central New York. The completion of the expansion and upgrades will ensure the airport continues to provide excellent service in a modern facility for years to come,” adding thanks to Governor Hochul “for her ongoing support…to offer Central New York travelers a world-class airport experience.”
State Senator Chris Ryan said: “With historic investments and a bold vision for the future…Central New York is becoming a global gateway…The completion of this expansion at Syracuse Hancock International Airport sends a clear message: we are ready to welcome visitors from across the state and around the world…while fueling region’s economic momentum.”
Assembly Transportation Chair William Magnarelli remarked: “Modernizing our local airports allows upstate cities to continue…driving economic development by drawing tourists…The governor’s commitment…revitalizes [the] facility.”
Assemblymember Al Stirpe pointed out: “With Micron’s arrival attracting new business opportunities…Syracuse Hancock will be better equipped…” Assemblymember Pamela Hunter called it “a major milestone” noting upgrades would attract investment while supporting long-term growth.
City Mayor Ben Walsh stated: “With strong support of Governor Hochul…Syracuse Hancock International Airport is a point of pride…” Jason Terreri (Executive Director) highlighted alignment with goals for best-in-class passenger experiences supported by state funding.
