D.C.-area airports add new flights, restaurants for peak summer travel
The big picture: Both Dulles International and Reagan National are expanding to accommodate more travelers, airlines and routes, and are upping their amenities to improve the airport experience.
By the numbers: More than 20 million people are expected to pass through the airports between May and August, with 11 million at Dulles alone (it has more than 60 nonstop international destinations).
Airlines like United are counting on a record-busy summer.
Memorial Day weekend flights at Dulles are up by 20% over last year.
Zoom in: United just launched three new international routes from Dulles: to Dakar, Senegal; Venice, Italy; and Nice, France — the first and only nonstop flight from D.C. to the French Riviera.
Other airlines like Frontier and Allegiant are also launching new routes from Dulles, while WestJet is resuming seasonal routes to Canada.
At Reagan, American Airlines is upping its summer routes.
Foodwise: Dulles just got a Ben's Chili Bowl, a Rappahannock Oyster Bar, and a spinoff of Navy Yard's upscale diner Gatsby.
What's next: Nearly a dozen new concessions will open at the two airports in the coming year. Dulles gets the bulk, including several local businesses:
2 Silos Brewing Co.: A spinoff of the Manassas brewery.
Clyde's: The beloved American tavern that started in Georgetown will serve burgers and more.
Aslin Beer Co.: A local brewery with a diverse menu.
The Market at Shenandoah: A retail marketplace for local products, adjoining a Starbucks.
Wanderlust: Offers local chocolates, specialty gifts and D.C. souvenirs.
DCA will bring in two local chains: Makers Union gastropub and Wiseguy Pizza.
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