Trump Calls Dulles Airport “Terrible” as Major Overhaul Plans Take Shape

Dulles International Airport, once envisioned as the futuristic gateway to the nation’s capital, is back in the spotlight after President Donald Trump called it a “terrible airport” and vowed major improvements.

Operational for more than 60 years, Dulles has faced persistent criticism for its unusual people-moving system. The mobile lounges, elevated buses designed to ferry passengers from the terminal to planes, were once considered groundbreaking. But as traffic increased after airline deregulation, they became a frustrating bottleneck for travelers. A crash involving one of the vehicles last month injured more than a dozen people, prompting renewed calls for change.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy also highlighted concerns about jet fuel odors inside the airport. He announced the Department of Transportation is now seeking proposals for new terminals and concourse construction through public-private partnerships.

Despite its challenges, aviation historians note Dulles still plays a vital role as the primary international portal to Washington, DC. Its long runways support the largest commercial aircraft, and its location in fast-growing Northern Virginia has helped sustain its importance over the decades.

The airport originally earned praise for its architecture. Designed by Eero Saarinen, the vaulted main terminal became an iconic symbol of modern air travel. Trump even complimented Saarinen’s work this week, saying it was “a great building at a bad airport.”

The administration’s renewed focus follows a series of safety and operational concerns linked to outdated infrastructure. The Department of Transportation recently requested information for designing and financing a new terminal, the first step in what could be a major redevelopment.

United Airlines, which uses Dulles as a hub, says it welcomes discussions on enhancing airport operations and infrastructure. Aviation experts note that while modernization will be costly, the vast land surrounding Dulles allows for significant future expansion — a luxury most major airports no longer have.

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