Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) will open its new rental car facility on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, advancing the airport’s ongoing transformation through the AVL Forward project and enhancing the arrival experience for passengers.
Beginning with the first arriving flight on May 20, all passengers needing rental car services will be directed to the new rental car counters. Upon arrival, passengers will deplane at the North Concourse, proceed to the ticket lobby, and follow a clearly marked outdoor passenger pathway leading to the rental car counters, next to the new baggage claim.
The new rental car facility is part of AVL Forward, a comprehensive effort to modernize and expand the airport’s terminal and supporting infrastructure. Since launching in 2019 and breaking ground in August 2023, the project has reached several major milestones, including the commissioning of the Checked Baggage Inspection System (CBIS), the opening of the north ticket lobby and the debut of the new TSA security checkpoint and North Concourse in 2025. Phase 2 construction began on October 22, 2025, and the partial new baggage claim opened on April 17, 2026. The project is expected to be completed at the end of 2027 – early 2028. When complete, the new terminal will be 335,000 square feet, creating a more spacious and efficient environment for travelers.
As construction progresses, AVL encourages passengers to allow extra time when navigating the terminal. For more information about the AVL Forward project, visit flyavl.com/AVLForward
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ABOUT AVL
Serving more than 2.24 million passengers in 2025 Asheville Regional Airport is continuing its growth trajectory. The Airport is served by five airlines that provide nonstop service to 26 nonstop destinations. AVL’s terminal expansion project, known as AVL Forward, is the largest infrastructure investment in the airport’s history and will deliver a world-class travel experience. Guided by its mission to champion exceptional experiences and economic vitality, AVL is an authentic and convenient gateway for both business and adventure. Learn more at flyAVL.com.