The TSA security screening area at Fresno Yosemite International Airport has been expanded. Photos via Fresno Airports

Travelers going through the Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) can feel a little safer with improved security.

On Tuesday, FAT celebrated a FATForward Terminal Expansion Program milestone with the opening of an expanded security queuing area within a 13,000 square foot facility.

Displayed near the security screening area, the floor-to-ceiling-mural “Fresno Airport—A Welcoming Adventure” was painted by San Joaquin Valley artists Colleen Mitchell-Veyna and Kelsey Gilles.

“The expansion of the security checkpoint at Fresno Yosemite International Airport is a major step forward in meeting the growing demands of air travel in our region,” said City of Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “Each year, millions of passengers pass through our Airport, and this project ensures we can accommodate that growth with greater efficiency, comfort, and care.  Since breaking ground in 2023, we’ve remained focused on transforming the Airport into a modern, spacious, and traveler friendly facility – one that not only supports economic opportunity but also reflects the pride we have in welcoming the world to Fresno.”

The new security checkpoint layout increases the efficiency of passenger screening with more capacity and the capability to operate five passenger screening lanes simultaneously.

The expansion adds 8,000 square feet, shifting passenger queuing from the lobby to within the security checkpoint footprint.

There is new carpet, a larger recompose area with contemporary seating, and dynamic flight information displays which offer travelers an upgraded export experiencing.

“The City of Fresno is delivering on the commitments made to improve and expand our airport,” said Councilmember Tyler Maxwell. “As the councilmember representing Fresno Yosemite International Airport, I couldn’t be prouder. Fresno is a destination city—and it’s about time our airport reflected that.”

The airport worked in partnership with the Fresno Arts Council to develop and implement a terminal Expansion Public Art Program at FAT.

 

The artists were selected for their mural concept that highlights the beauty surrounding Fresno and the region symbolizing nature, agriculture, community, and diversity.

The terminal expansion cost totaled $150 million.

The funding came from several federal grants, as well as airport revenue bonds and Measure C.

“With the opening of the Fresno Yosemite International Airport expanded security checkpoint, this is the first time the traveling public will get a sense of the improvements we have been working on for years,” said Director of Aviation Henry Thompson. “This opening begins to provide a glimpse of what is to come later this fall when we unveil the new terminal expansion.  Passengers will begin to experience an elevated customer experience and see Fresno moving to the next level to a larger airport and no longer that small airport in the Valley.”