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🏢 Terminal Guide & Navigation
Quad Cities International Airport operates a single terminal building divided into Concourse A and Concourse B, handling approximately 3,000 passengers daily across 40 flights to 11 nonstop destinations. The facility underwent its last major renovation in 2001, which doubled the terminal size and added modern amenities, though the landside infrastructure dates to 1985, predating TSA requirements, modern luggage systems, and ADA compliance standards.
Project GATEWAY, launched in spring 2024, represents a multi-phase transformation of the pre-security landside areas addressing nearly 40 years of deferred modernization. Phase One completed new baggage makeup facilities behind the existing terminal and updated ticketing counters, with Phase Two targeted for completion in summer 2027. The renovation acknowledges how air travel has evolved since the 1985 construction, when rollaboard suitcases didn't exist and security protocols were fundamentally different.
The terminal's post-security area between Concourses A and B features a centralized cluster of amenities including a snack bar, lounge, full-service bar, and Gevalia Kaffe Coffee Shop. Concourse B on the upper level, serving gates 6-11 for Delta and United operations, houses a CNBC News and Gift Shop along with additional retail options. The Destination Points frequent flyer lounge caters to regional business travelers flying eight or more times annually, while an art gallery near the security checkpoint showcases local and regional contemporary works.
The airport maintains its international designation through customs facilities dedicated to cargo and general aviation operations, though scheduled passenger service remains entirely domestic through Allegiant, American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express. Service focuses on hub connections to Chicago O'Hare, Denver, Dallas/Fort Worth, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and Atlanta, reflecting the Quad Cities' position as a mid-sized metropolitan area spanning the Illinois-Iowa border. With passenger traffic increasing 9% year-over-year in early 2025, the facility balances regional connectivity needs with infrastructure modernization requirements.
Airlines Serving MLI
💡 Connection Tips
Quad Cities International Airport (MLI) serves the bi-state metropolitan area spanning Moline and Rock Island (Illinois) plus Davenport and Bettendorf (Iowa) through a single terminal currently undergoing the $60 million Project GATEWAY renovation transforming 1985-era infrastructure for modern air travel. On-site rental car desks from major agencies occupy the lower-level arrivals area, providing vehicle access for exploring the Illinois-Iowa Quad Cities region. Terminal amenities include the Destination Points frequent flyer lounge for passengers with eight or more annual flights, Gevalia Kaffe Coffee Shop, full-service bar, and art gallery near security showcasing regional contemporary works.
Four major airlines operate from the facility: Allegiant Air (Airbus A319/A320) to Orlando, Las Vegas, Clearwater, Phoenix/Mesa, and seasonal Sarasota; American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express providing regional jet service to major hubs including Chicago O'Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Atlanta, Minneapolis-Saint Paul, and Denver. The airport's compact two-level design (check-in upper, arrivals lower) enables efficient 60-90 minute advance arrival for domestic flights through streamlined security processing. The facility's 9% year-over-year passenger growth reflects increasing regional connectivity serving manufacturing centers, agricultural businesses, and John Deere's global headquarters in nearby Moline, positioning MLI as a strategic alternative to Chicago O'Hare for western Illinois and eastern Iowa travelers.
Ground transportation features MetroLINK Route 20 providing daily public bus service between downtown Moline and the airport terminal, while designated rideshare pickup zones outside baggage claim serve Uber and Lyft with typical 5-10 minute response times. Project GATEWAY Phase One completed $16 million in modernization including updated ticketing counters and a new 14,600-square-foot baggage handling facility, while Phase Two's $20 million renovation of public areas will enhance accessibility with companion care restrooms and nursing mother suites through 2027.
Expert Travel Tips & Insights
Pro Traveler Secrets
• Use MetroLINK Route 20 for a very cheap link to downtown Moline.
• The terminal is small; 60 mins is plenty for domestic flights.
• Designated rideshare pickup is clearly marked outside baggage claim.
• Great alternative to ORD for travelers in western Illinois/eastern Iowa.
• Free Wi-Fi is fast and reliable throughout the facility.
Quick Facts
Minimum domestic connection:
30 minutes
International connections:
60 minutes
Interline transfers:
60 minutes
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