Tulsa International Airport Celebrates Ribbon Cutting of International Customs Facility

Historic project to bring first commercial international flights to Tulsa later this month.

TULSA, OK – Tulsa International Airport (TUL) celebrated the ribbon cutting of its Federal Inspection Services (FIS) – General Aviation (GA) Facility today, marking a historic moment for the airport and the Tulsa community. The new 45,000-square-foot international customs facility will allow commercial air carriers to offer nonstop international flights directly from Tulsa for the first time.

Community leaders, government officials and project partners gathered for the ceremony, which featured remarks, live music and custom giveaways to commemorate the occasion. Speakers included Alexis Higgins, Chief Executive Officer of Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust; Congressman Kevin Hern, United States Representative; Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols IV; Tulsa County Commissioner Stan Sallee; Grayson Ardies, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics; Brett Venable, VP/Area Manager of Flintco; and Whitney Stauffer, Partner of Narrate Design.

While U.S. Customs and Border Protection has maintained a presence at Tulsa International Airport for decades, services have historically been limited to clearing international general aviation and cargo operations. The new facility expands capabilities to include commercial passenger processing, which can also be helpful when TUL receives unexpected international diverted flights.

The first international commercial flight will launch on May 21, with nonstop seasonal service from Tulsa to Cancun, Mexico, operating through August 9. The service will be offered twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays, giving travelers a convenient new option for reaching one of the region’s most popular destinations.

The international customs facility is designed to deliver a seamless passenger experience while supporting future air service growth. Tulsa International Airport continues to work with airline partners to expand international opportunities for the region.

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

“Today is a landmark day for Tulsa,” Mayor Nichols said. “This customs facility is more than just a new addition to our airport – it’s a statement about who we are becoming as a city and where we’re headed in the future. This facility strengthens Tulsa’s connection to the global economy, expands opportunities for international travel and commerce, and positions our city to compete on an even bigger stage.”

“It’s a state-of-the-art facility that greatly enhances our officer’s ability to screen incoming international passengers,” said Raul Orona, CBP Dallas/Fort Worth Assistant Port Director. “Our advanced technologies reduce administrative burdens and allow officers to do what they do best — talk to travelers and determine intent.”

“This international customs facility is a transformation investment for Tulsa and the entire region. It strengthens our position as a growing economic hub, expands opportunities for tourism and business development, and gives travelers the convenience of international access right here at home,” said Tulsa County Commissioner, District 1, Stan Sallee. “Projects like this are about more than air travel, they are about creating connectivity, supporting future growth, and continuing to build a stronger regional economy for generations to come.”

The project has been a key component of the airport’s long-range capital improvement plan since 2016 and reflects a continued commitment to enhancing infrastructure and expanding air service. The total project cost for design and construction was approximately $41 million and is funded through a combination of Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust funds and grants from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Narrate Design, formerly Selser Schaefer Architects, led the project’s design, while Flintco served as the construction contractor.

About Tulsa International Airport: Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is dedicated to providing a seamless, friendly and accessible travel experience for all passengers. Known for its customer-centric approach and forward-thinking initiatives, TUL connects travelers to destinations across the globe while maintaining its commitment to the community it serves. Seven air carriers offer nonstop service from TUL to 26 destinations across the country. In 2025, the airport served over 3 million passengers. For more information, visit www.flytulsa.com.

This story was originally published by Fly Tulsa