A new pedestrian tunnel at Pittsburgh International Airport, set to open this year, will connect the new landside terminal directly to the existing airside building, eliminating the need for an aging people mover and generating over $20 million in annual savings, officials said.

The Allegheny County Airport Authority said the tunnel is designed for the airport’s current status as an Origination & Destination, or O&D, airport, where 98% of passengers begin or end their journeys in Pittsburgh.

“Pittsburgh really isn’t a layover anymore,” said Paul Hoback, Executive Vice President & Chief Development Officer for the authority. “Everyone can start their airport journey closer to the airside terminal while eliminating the inefficiencies that exist in the current system.”

The tunnel will replace the underground people mover, which currently transports 10 million travelers and thousands of workers annually. The authority estimates airlines operating at the airport will save more than $20 million annually in operational and maintenance costs.

Hoback said eliminating the people mover will save approximately $4.5 million in annual operating costs alone.

“The train made sense in 1992 when the airport was a hub,” he said. “Now, as an O&D airport, a pedestrian tunnel is a far more efficient and cost-effective solution.”

The tunnel will feature dynamic lighting designed to emulate the view of the Pittsburgh skyline as drivers exit the Fort Pitt Tunnel.

The new terminal will also feature a more efficient baggage handling system, replacing the current eight-mile conveyor belt with a three-mile system, reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. This upgrade, combined with a streamlined baggage tug process, is expected to save airlines an additional $7 million annually.

“For airlines, the airport’s new design will result in lower fuel costs, cause less wear and tear on equipment and extend its life, and will increase efficiency,” Hoback said. “It’s a win-win for the airlines and passengers: The airlines will see higher productivity, and bags will be delivered to passengers in a timelier fashion.”

The $20.1 million in total annual savings also includes efficiencies gained from new HVAC and lighting systems.