Volunteers needed to take Pittsburgh International Airport's new terminal for a test flight

The Allegheny County Airport Authority is seeking between 3,000 and 4,000 volunteers to test out the Pittsburgh International Airport’s new terminal before it opens later this year.

The so-called dress rehearsal will give officials an opportunity to simulate what a peak travel day would look and feel like by testing out processes and operations at the terminal.

“A strong trial program ensures that when the new PIT opens, our team is confident, prepared and ready to deliver a world-class travel experience for passengers,” said Christina Cassotis, authority chief executive officer, in a statement. “It’s our opportunity to uncover challenges, validate our processes and build confidence so that when we open, we are fully prepared to deliver a world-class airport experience.”

The project at Pittsburgh International Airport has been in the works since 2019. In April, the cost was pegged at $1.7 billion.

The volunteer day is being scheduled in September. Participants will act as passengers and provide feedback to officials.

Anyone interested in volunteering can scan a QR code at this link or visit pittransformed.com/opening-events and fill out a form.

The terminal expected to open in the fall.

It is the first major overhaul of airport since it opened in 1992. It replaced Greater Pittsburgh International Airport, which had been the region’s air hub since 1952.

Travelers will see several improvements in the new terminal, including covered parking spaces, enhanced wayfinding, reduced walking distances, redesigned check-in and a streamlined security process.