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Today marks the opening of six new gates in the Concourse E extension, the new home of Southwest Airlines at Portland International Airport

More than 2,000 builders spent over 1,500 days bringing the 830-foot building to life. The Concourse E extension is designed to both reflect the urban landscape of the city and frame classic views of the region. The interior space features new gates, new shops and dining, curated artwork and comfortable spots to relax and recharge. Architectural highlights include high ceilings and a sweeping wall of windows showcasing Mt Hood.

“We’ve been so fortunate to have Southwest invest in Portland and we are excited to welcome them to their new home on Concourse E,” said Chief Projects Officer Vince Granato. “This space brings travelers more of what they’ve told us they want – comfortable seating, local dining and shopping options, and a welcoming space for all guests.”

Artwork

The Concourse E extension doubles as a gallery for contemporary artist Jacob Hashimoto’s three-dimensional sculptures — canopies of kite-like discs that reflect the atmosphere of the Pacific Northwest and draw inspiration from Hashimoto’s Japanese heritage.

The two large-scale pieces titled “The City” and “The Sky” hang at the center of the concourse and are the most recent inclusions in PDX’s long-standing art program.

Hashimoto is a New York City-based artist who was raised in Walla Walla, Wash. and who still has deep familial ties to the region.

Shops and Dining

On the new portion of the concourse, there are spaces for 10 unique places to shop and dine. Last July, the Port announced the new choices and began lease negotiations with the business owners. Three companies have opened and are operating today; one plans to open next week.

• The Tillamook Market – This market at PDX is the company’s first brick and mortar venue outside of their hometown in Tillamook, Oregon, in the brand’s 111-year history. Tillamook’s menu includes the classics with fried cheese curds, grilled cheese sandwiches, an ice cream counter and a selection of grab-and-go items travelers can carry home in insulated bags.

• Calliope – From the owners of cc McKenzie Shoes & Apparel, which has two locations at PDX, comes a new shop focused on accessories and gifts. Calliope takes its name from one of Oregon’s native hummingbirds and showcases creative and playful keepsakes.

• Your Northwest Travel Mart – To ensure travelers have all the necessities before they fly, including the latest books, magazines and newspapers, Your Northwest Travel Mart opened its fifth location at PDX on Concourse E.

• Jamba – (Opening week of July 20!) Returning to PDX to offer travelers a menu of smoothies, bowls and fresh juices, the company’s menu evolution now includes more options with plant-based and no-sugar-added menu items.

The remaining businesses – Bambuza Vietnam Kitchen, Evergreens, Juliett, Starbucks, Stumptown and Tender Loving Empire – are working hard to open as travel numbers and economic conditions allow.

Project Background

The Concourse E extension is part of PDXNext, a series of five large construction projects underway at the airport. PDXNext is a $2 billion investment in the convenience, comfort and uniquely PDX experience for travelers, airlines and employees.

The largest two air carriers at PDX – Alaska Air Group and Southwest Airlines – were located on the south side of the airport terminal building, and two-thirds of all PDX passengers were using the south side of the terminal. Southwest’s move to Concourse E helps even out passenger use of the TSA security screening checkpoints, baggage handling systems, and ticket lobby facilities. It also brings the first new gates to PDX in nearly 20 years.

For more information, visit www.pdxnext.com. 

Current State of Travel at PDX

The health and safety of travelers and employees continues to be the top priority at PDX. The airport is open and ready when travelers choose to fly. PDX is working closely with public health partners to respond to and help slow the spread of COVID-19. Complete details can be found at www.flypdx.com/travelsafe.

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PHOTO EDITORS: Please find a selection of images from opening day here: https://go.pdx.com/ConcourseEMedia. Please give photo credit Courtesy of the Port of Portland.