SHREVEPORT, La. — Work is officially underway at Shreveport Regional Airport to establish the facility’s first international arrivals and departures area.
Construction crews are currently focused on Gate 1, where the airport is building out dedicated space for passenger processing and a new baggage claim area specifically for international travelers.
Airport officials expect to launch nonstop international flights by the summer of 2027 once the facility is complete.
Airport spokesman Mark Crawford identified Cancun, Mexico, as the primary target for new international routes.
Data indicates that dozens of local travelers currently drive to Dallas to catch flights to Mexico, suggesting a high regional demand.
"Cancun is our No. 1 international destination that people fly to from Shreveport," Crawford said. "The more people that choose to fly from Shreveport, the more the airlines will add additional service."
Airport leaders believe there is more than enough demand to fill nonstop planes locally rather than losing those passengers to larger hubs.
While the international expansion is the long-term focus, the airport is also preparing for immediate growth. New service to Chicago is scheduled to begin this October.