AT&T will make extensive upgrades to the wireless network serving Dallas Fort Worth (DFW) International Airport in an agreement announced today. The project will include including deployment of a private 5G network and a new public Wi-Fi network.
AT&T will invest $10 million in upgrades. The goal of the project is modernization and expansion of the airport’s network and its ability to support airport operations. The free public Wi-Fi will be upgraded from 800 to 1,000 access points.
Work will begin this summer and enhancements will be online by autumn pending execution of a final contract. The airport – which has 168 gates in five terminals and spans 18,000 acres — is the third largest airport measured by size in the world.
AT&T DFW Deal
The private 5G network will support the increasing use of IoT and the digitization of airport operations. The goals are to enhance reliability and security, reduce latency and increase capacity. Future use cases will include real-time data analytics, enhanced communications with airport systems and an enhanced ability to monitor and manage passenger traffic, security systems and baggage handling.
The platform will include indoor and outdoor spaces, parking lots and runways.
“Modernizing airport technology needs to focus on both improving the efficiency and convenience for airlines and airport operations and the overall travel experience for passengers, while ensuring the safety and security of all those who pass through its gates,” Jason Inskeep, Assistant Vice President, 5G Center of Excellence at AT&T, said in a press release about the AT&T DFW news. “We’re proud to work alongside DFW Airport and look forward to continuing our collaboration to bring the best connectivity solutions for all.”
In February 2021, AT&T and Boingo Wireless said in a press release that they were “working to deploy” AT&T 5G+ in 12 airports nationwide, including John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport in New York City and Chicago O’Hare International Airport and Midway International Airport. Dallas Love Field Airport in also was among the airports announced.
