Airports Council International reported that U.S. airports need $128 billion worth of repairs and improvements through 2023, based on new survey results.

The airports already face $91.6 billion in debt from past projects. 

Des Moines International Airport, which is planning a new terminal as part of a nearly $500 million overhaul, is included in the study. Passenger traffic has grown steadily, testing a terminal built in 1948. The airport also is trying to better serve cargo, general aviation and airport-related businesses.

More than 56 percent of the needs at the U.S. airports are within terminals, the report noted. 

“Inadequate airport infrastructure that fails to meet the growing needs of businesses and tourists puts in jeopardy the continued economic growth of American cities, states, and regions. Airports are experiencing record growth, but aging and outdated infrastructure threatens their ability to serve their passengers and local communities,” said ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin Burke. 

“Airport investment promotes much-needed competition in the airline industry,” Burke said. “Airports need additional resources to build the terminals, gates, and ramps necessary to attract new air carriers and allow existing ones to expand service. The traveling public gets more choices, lower airfares, and a better overall customer experience when airports can build the facilities that provide more airline options and more air service alternatives.”