Miami Airport Begins Construction of First-of-its-Kind Private Terminal in the U.S.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is set to make history in commercial aviation with the arrival of PS MIA, the first private terminal of its kind in the United States. This Thursday, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava led the groundbreaking ceremony and design presentation for this exclusive project.
What is PS MIA, and Why is it Unique?
PS (formerly The Private Suite) offers a completely distinct airport experience, designed for commercial travelers seeking unmatched privacy, luxury, and comfort. Its arrival in Miami marks the first time this concept has been introduced in Florida, representing a leap forward in premium air travel.
What sets PS MIA apart is not just its focus on luxury but also its historic location: the building that once housed Pan American Airways (Pan Am) at 4900 N.W. 36th Street—an iconic structure designated as a Miami-Dade County Historic Site since 2014.
An Architectural Tribute with a Vision for the Future
The restoration of the former Pan Am building will be more than a simple remodel. PS MIA will preserve the mid-century Brutalist architecture, integrating elements that pay homage to aviation history and Miami’s vibrant style. Original features to be preserved include:
- The iconic Pan Am logos
- Original gold panels
- Signature reflecting pools from the original design
These will be complemented with materials like terrazzo, marble, and smoked glass, alongside design patterns inspired by Lilly Pulitzer and Marimekko—icons of the glamorous style that defines the city.
Personalized Luxury: What Will the Terminal Offer?
PS MIA is envisioned as an exclusive, serene space with high-end services, including:
- Five fully equipped private suites
- Two lounges with gourmet dining options
- An open-air central courtyard
- A spa offering beauty treatments and massages
Everything is designed to provide a seamless, relaxed experience far removed from the usual hustle and bustle of traditional terminals.
During the ceremony, Mayor Levine Cava emphasized the significance of this initiative for both economic development and historic preservation in the county:
“With the groundbreaking of PS MIA, we welcome a new era of luxury travel at Miami International Airport, right in the heart of our county. This project not only elevates the experience we offer as a world-class airport but also revitalizes a historic building that defined aviation history.”
She also praised PS’s commitment to honoring the past while projecting an ambitious future for air travel in the region.
Design with a Recognized Signature
Key figures in design and restoration are behind the project:
- RJ Heisenbottle Architects, specialists in historic preservation
- Cliff Fong, an acclaimed interior designer known for his work on PS LAX
Together, they lead a collaborative effort to balance contemporary elegance with respect for the site’s cultural and architectural identity.
Scheduled Opening in 2026
PS MIA is set to open in spring 2026, promising to radically transform the flight experience for discerning passengers who value both comfort and exclusivity.
With this venture, Miami solidifies its role as a key hub for innovation in commercial aviation, blending history, design, and technology into a single terminal.
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Un apasionado por la aviación, Fundador y CEO de Aviación al Día.