MIAMI (VINnews) — Miami International Airport has opened a private terminal that lets commercial passengers avoid the main terminal entirely, offering dedicated security, chef-prepared meals and a chauffeured ride across the tarmac to the aircraft.
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The 34,000-square-foot facility, operated by Los Angeles-based PS, occupies the restored 1960s former Pan American Airways headquarters at 4900 NW 36th St. Travel began June 30 after a mid-June ribbon-cutting with Miami-Dade officials. It is PS’s first Florida location and its fourth U.S. private terminal, following sites in Los Angeles, Atlanta and Dallas-Fort Worth.
Guests use a private entrance and valet parking, then choose The Salon, a shared lounge, or one of five private suites with residential-style rooms and courtyard balconies. Amenities include on-request spa treatments, an in-house kitchen with Cuban-influenced dishes, a bar and an open-air courtyard with a pool. Dedicated TSA screening is on site. When boarding time arrives, a BMW takes passengers across the airfield to their commercial flight.
One-time access starts at $1,295 per person for The Salon and $4,950 for a private suite that holds up to four people. Annual memberships of $1,250 or $4,850 reduce per-visit fees. Reservations require online signup and approval, typically 48 hours before a flight. Membership is not required.
PS Chief Executive Amina Belouizdad Porter has said the service is aimed at travelers who pay first-class fares but stop short of chartering a private jet. Miami-Dade County approved a 20-year lease in 2023. The airport receives the greater of $600,000 a year in rent or 7.5% of gross revenue; officials have estimated the deal could generate about $16 million over the life of the contract.
The renovation kept mid-century architectural details, including original Pan Am insignias and reflecting pools, while adding contemporary finishes. Designers were R.J. Heisenbottle Architects and interior designer Cliff Fong. A door-to-door transfer option, PS Direct, is planned later.
The model is expanding at large U.S. airports as operators seek lease and revenue-sharing income and as high-spending passengers look for a quieter path from curb to cabin.