Atlanta’s new welcome mat to the world is in the final stages. The Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal is slated to open in late spring 2012 at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
In addition to adding 12 new gates exclusively for international flights, the $1.4 billion dollar terminal will simplify the process of arriving in Atlanta.  No longer will Atlanta-bound international travelers be required to re-check their luggage after clearing customs.

“With the world’s busiest airport and the world’s second largest airline, getting to Atlanta was already easy,” said William Pate, president and CEO of Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.  “The Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal will take advantage of Atlanta’s geographical advantages to capture additional international visitation.”

Positioned at the apex of Europe and Latin America, Atlanta is the gateway to the world.  Already offering direct flights to 165 destinations in Central and South America, as well as 115 destinations in Europe, Atlanta is one of the top launching pads to the world.  With a new international terminal, Atlanta.mobi can accommodate more international flights.

The city is already seeing a boost in international visitation with a 25 percent spike in 2010.  Over the next five years, overseas visitation to the United States is expected to rise 54 percent.

The opening of the new terminal coincides with a push from the United States to increase international visitation. Brand USA, a $200 million marketing campaign designed to attract international travelers, has the potential to bring an additional $859 billion in economic output to the U.S by 2020.  On top of that, President Obama recently called for the state department to streamline the visa process for international visitors, which could make getting to the U.S. a reality for many overseas travelers.

The Maynard H. Jackson International Terminal is part of a $5.4 billion development program which will expand, repair and upgrade designated areas within the airport’s facilities.

Established in 1913, Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau is a private, nonprofit organization created to favorably impact the Atlanta economy through conventions and tourism.