Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust

“For the first time ever, Tulsa travelers will be able to board an international flight right here at home. This milestone reflects years of thoughtful planning and a shared vision to better connect Tulsa to the world.”

- Alexis Higgins, Chief Executive Officer, Tulsa International Airport

Tulsa International Airport Customs Facility

Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust

Direct International Travel Arrives in Tulsa

Tulsa International Airport’s new Customs Facility creates a long-awaited gateway for commercial international travel while continuing to serve the private, charter, and cargo flights that already rely on U.S. Customs and Border Protection services. Located adjacent to the existing airport, the facility provides arriving passengers with a clear, efficient path from the aircraft to inspection and onward to the main terminal.

The project replaces a much smaller customs operation near the airport’s cargo facilities with a purpose-built Federal Inspection Services and General Aviation facility designed to meet current U.S. Customs and Border Protection standards. Its completion allows Tulsa to support international commercial service while strengthening the airport’s role as a regional connector for business and leisure travel.

A First Welcome to Tulsa

For many travelers, an airport is the first experience of a city. The new facility was designed to make that arrival feel distinctly Tulsa. Its interiors draw inspiration from the city’s Art Deco legacy and aviation history, pairing the efficiency required of a customs environment with a strong sense of place.

The approximately 45,000-square-foot addition includes passenger processing, baggage handling, inspection, and support spaces, all carefully organized to support a smooth arrival experience. When international arrivals are not scheduled, the gate can serve general aviation, helping the facility remain useful day to day. The design also allows for future expansion as demand for international travel grows.

More than an infrastructure upgrade, the Customs Facility gives Tulsa a new front door that supports global connections while offering travelers an introduction to the character of the city.

Project Features

Approximately 45,000 SF addition
Federal Inspection Services facility
General aviation customs processing
Commercial international arrivals
U.S. Customs and Border Protection standards
Passenger processing and inspection areas
Baggage handling systems
Terminal-adjacent location
Art Deco-inspired interiors
Flexible gate use for general aviation
Future expansion capacity
$41 million project investment

FAQ: Tulsa International Airport Customs Facility

Q: What is the Tulsa International Airport Customs Facility?
A: The facility is a Federal Inspection Services and General Aviation customs facility that supports U.S. Customs and Border Protection screening for commercial international arrivals, private aircraft, charter flights, and cargo operations.

Q: Why was a new customs facility needed at Tulsa International Airport?
A: Tulsa’s previous customs operation was a much smaller facility near the airport’s cargo area. The new facility meets current U.S. Customs and Border Protection standards and can accommodate commercial international passenger flights as well as general aviation users.

Q: Where is the facility located?
A: The Customs Facility is located adjacent to the Tulsa International Airport terminal, providing airside access for arriving aircraft and a direct connection for passengers entering the terminal after inspection.

Q: How large is the new Customs Facility?
A: The project includes an approximately 45,000-square-foot addition with passenger processing, baggage handling, inspection, and support spaces.

Q: How does the design reflect Tulsa?
A: The interiors draw inspiration from Tulsa’s Art Deco heritage and local landmarks, creating an arrival experience that feels efficient, welcoming, and connected to the city.

Q: Can the facility be used when international flights are not arriving?
A: Yes. When not in use for international arrivals, the gate can support general aviation activity, helping the facility remain active and useful throughout the day.