WTE 2025: MIA Looks to the Future With a Historic Modernization Plan
Miami International Airport (MIA) is moving forward with an ambitious modernization plan designed to handle 77 million passengers and 5 million tons of cargo by 2040. In an exclusive interview during WTE Miami 2025, Ralph Cutié, MIA’s Director and CEO, outlined a vision of growth, connectivity, and transformation that will further solidify its role as one of the world’s most important airports.
Currently, MIA connects to more than 171 nonstop destinations through nearly 100 airlines. The airport plays a central role in the region, with over 80% of its traffic linked to Latin America and the Caribbean, including 46 destinations in the Caribbean, 10 in Central America, and 18 in South America. “We are the largest air bridge between North America and the region,” Cutié emphasized.
New international routes in 2025 include GOL to Belém (Brazil), Viva Aerobus to Monterrey (Mexico), and soon Icelandair’s first Miami–Reykjavik connection. MIA is also in advanced talks with airlines such as Air India and Korean Air to open its first direct route to Tokyo.
On June 24, MIA broke ground on Concourse K, a $700 million project adding six gates, retail areas, a new passenger lounge, and upgrades to baggage systems and airfield infrastructure. This marks the first terminal expansion in more than 18 years and is slated for completion in 2029, built under LEED Silver sustainable standards.
Other major initiatives under the Modernization in Action Plan include the new Ibis parking garage, renovation of the Central Terminal, expansion of gate D60, and replacement of over 200 elevators, escalators, and moving walkways by 2031.
Beyond its transit role, MIA has become a destination in itself. More than 35% of its 200+ retail and dining outlets are local and minority-owned businesses, offering travelers a genuine multicultural experience. Thanks to this variety, MIA has been recognized by Global Traveler as “Best Airport for Layovers” and “Best Airport for Shopping,” and was also named by Food & Wine as one of the top 10 U.S. airports for food and drink.
