Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), the nation’s busiest airport, is expanding its capacity to better serve a growing volume of travelers. As part of a major design‑build initiative, STV served as the lead architect, working as a subconsultant to Delve Underground on the Clark/Atkinson/Technique Construction Group (CAT JV) team, for a 700‑foot extension to the Plane Train automated people mover (APM) tunnel beyond the domestic baggage claim terminus station. The project modernizes the existing system while improving passenger flow throughout the heart of the terminal.
What challenges did STV address?
Increasing passenger demand required ATL to reduce APM headways and improve vertical movement between the underground station and the terminal above. The existing terminus station faced circulation bottlenecks, constrained turnaround capacity and limited accessibility, all of which impacted passenger experience and system reliability. The airport needed a solution that simultaneously addressed operational efficiency and improved traveler wayfinding and mobility.
What solutions did STV deliver?
STV led the architectural design for the new 700-foot tunnel extension, enabling more efficient train turnaround operations and significantly reducing APM headways. To support higher train frequency and increased passenger volume, STV also designed extensive renovations to the existing terminus station, including a new multi‑level west vertical transportation core equipped with expanded escalator and elevator capacity. These upgrades enhance accessibility and provide direct, intuitive connections to the main terminal’s boarding and ground transportation levels.
How does this project benefit the region?
The improvements strengthen overall airport operations, increase APM capacity, reduce wait times and enhance connectivity for millions of travelers. By improving accessibility and circulation at one of the nation’s busiest hubs, the project delivers a smoother, more reliable travel experience and supports ATL’s long‑term mobility and modernization goals.
Key Stats and Accolades
- 700‑foot APM tunnel extension
- 35,500 sf of station and circulation improvements
- 4 new escalators
- 2 ADA‑compliant elevators
- Enhanced APM headways for increased passenger throughput
