Airport Check-in: New taxiway construction starts in Phoenix

— -- Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport has begun construction on a new taxiway, funded by federal stimulus money.

The airport says the new taxiway C, which will be built in an area previously used by ground vehicles and civil aviation aircraft, will handle the largest jets and reduce taxi times.

"This project enhances our north airfield, making it easier and faster for planes to enter and exit Sky Harbor's north runway," says Sky Harbor's Jane Morris in a statement.

It will be business as usual at Pittsburgh International Airport next month when the city hosts the G-20 economic summit Sept. 24-25.

Airport spokeswoman JoAnn Jenny says the airport decided to make the announcement because it had been receiving so many queries about whether the international event would affect the airport.

Jenny advises passengers flying on those dates to arrive early and expect operations to be similar to a peak travel day, such as the day before Thanksgiving.

Nashville International Airport inaugurated its new military lounge last week. The lounge, on the ground transportation level, provides a place for military personnel to relax while traveling through Nashville.

"We hope the new military lounge will enhance the Nashville airport experience for members of the U.S. armed forces and their families," says airport spokeswoman Emily Richard.

Earlier this month, Nashville kicked off the second phase of its terminal renovation project.

When completed in 2010, the terminal will have a larger ticket lobby, a renovated baggage claim area and expanded restroom facilities, among other improvements.

Louisiana's Lake Charles Regional Airport opened a new $28 million passenger terminal last Friday. It replaces the old terminal that was heavily damaged by Hurricane Rita in 2005. The new 45,000-square-foot terminal is a two-story facility built with a Louisiana plantation-style design.

Route news

Texas and Canada will get two new links later this year.