Austin-Bergstrom Works to Cool Barbara Jordan Terminal This July

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is working to improve temperatures inside the Barbara Jordan Terminal after travelers and employees reported unusually warm conditions in parts of the facility during recent days.

Airport officials said the middle section of the terminal has been the most affected, with extreme Central Texas heat, high humidity and increased passenger traffic contributing to the discomfort.

"We are aware that the middle section of the Barbara Jordan Terminal has felt warmer than usual, and we understand it's been uncomfortable for both travelers and our staff," said Samantha Rojas, the airport's senior public information specialist.

Officials said the terminal's air conditioning system remains fully operational, but environmental and structural factors have made it more difficult to maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

According to the airport, the center portion of the terminal heats up faster and stays warmer longer because jet bridges and vestibule doors on opposite sides of the building frequently open during aircraft boarding and deplaning, allowing hot outdoor air to enter.

The issue becomes more noticeable during busy travel periods, when passenger volumes are high and terminal doors remain open longer.

To improve comfort, airport crews have installed oversized ceiling fans in sections of the terminal and deployed portable air-conditioning units near several gates. Additional improvements are also underway as airport officials evaluate long-term solutions.

"We're implementing improvements to help bring temperatures down and are continuing to evaluate additional solutions to keep travelers and staff as comfortable as possible," Rojas said.

The effort comes as Central Texas continues to experience typical summer weather, with daytime temperatures climbing into the upper 90s and heat index values exceeding 100 degrees on many afternoons.

Airport officials have not indicated when permanent upgrades may be completed but said they will continue to monitor terminal conditions and adjust cooling measures as needed throughout the busy summer travel season.