Redmond Municipal Airport is moving forward with a major terminal expansion that is expected to strengthen air travel options across Oregon while positioning Central Oregon for continued population and economic growth. The approximately $180 million project will significantly enlarge the existing terminal, increase passenger capacity and improve the airport’s ability to serve travelers from communities throughout the state.
Also known as Roberts Field, the airport has become an increasingly important transportation center for Central Oregon. It serves residents of Redmond, Bend, Sisters, Prineville, Madras, Sunriver and surrounding rural communities, while also attracting passengers from Southern Oregon, Eastern Oregon and parts of the Willamette Valley. As traffic continues to increase, the expansion is intended to create a more efficient and modern facility capable of supporting additional flights and destinations.
The project is expected to add more than 80,000 square feet of terminal space and nearly double the airport’s passenger capacity. Plans include a new second-level concourse, seven passenger boarding bridges, larger waiting areas, expanded security screening space, wider walkways, improved baggage systems and additional restrooms. New elevators, escalators and accessibility improvements are also included in the design.
One of the most noticeable changes will be the addition of enclosed boarding bridges. Many passengers currently walk across the outdoor tarmac when boarding or leaving aircraft. The new bridges will provide greater comfort during periods of snow, rain, wind and extreme summer temperatures while creating a more conventional airport experience.
The project carries statewide importance because it provides Oregon travelers with another practical departure point beyond Portland International Airport. Redmond already offers direct service to several major western cities, including Seattle, Portland, Phoenix, Salt Lake City, Denver, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Those routes connect passengers with larger airline networks serving destinations across the United States and internationally.
For residents of Southern Oregon, Redmond can provide another option when flights from Medford are limited, more expensive or unavailable at preferred times. Travelers from Eastern Oregon may also find the airport more accessible than Portland, particularly when road conditions, traffic and travel distance are taken into consideration. Residents from other parts of the state can compare fares, schedules, parking costs and available routes before selecting the airport that best meets their needs.
The terminal expansion is being built to accommodate long-term growth in Central Oregon. The region has experienced substantial population increases, greater tourism activity and expanded business development. Outdoor recreation, seasonal travel and growing commercial activity have contributed to increasing passenger numbers, placing greater pressure on the existing airport facility.
Construction is scheduled to continue through 2027, with the expanded terminal expected to open in early 2028. Airline service will remain in operation during the work, although passengers may encounter temporary changes involving gate locations, walking paths and access points. Airport officials are coordinating construction in phases to reduce disruption and maintain regular commercial service.
The redesigned terminal will reflect the character of Central Oregon through the use of timber, stone and large windows overlooking the Cascade Mountains. Energy-efficient lighting, updated heating and cooling systems and other environmentally conscious features are also planned. The facility is being designed with future expansion in mind, allowing additional improvements if passenger demand continues to rise.
Funding for the expansion comes from a combination of federal aviation grants, infrastructure funding, state transportation grants, airport reserves and airport revenue bonds. The project is not expected to rely on local property taxes, with bond repayment supported through airport-generated revenue.
Construction is also expected to support employment for contractors, suppliers and skilled trades throughout Oregon. Once completed, the larger terminal may create additional permanent jobs connected to airline operations, concessions, security, maintenance and passenger services.
The expansion of Redmond Municipal Airport represents a major investment in Oregon’s transportation system. By increasing capacity and improving access to regional and national destinations, the project will give residents across the state another airport to consider when planning business travel, vacations, family visits and other trips. When the terminal opens, Redmond will be better prepared to serve Central Oregon while also functioning as a broader travel gateway for communities throughout the state.