SAN ANTONIO — San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has broken ground on a new $1.2 billion terminal. The project will feature up to 17 gates, more than 800,000 square feet of new terminal space, 35,700 square feet of concessions and 29,000 square feet of club lounges.
SAT says the groundbreaking represents a significant step in its commitment to meeting the increasing demands of global air travel. Featuring a modern, accessible design, enhanced passenger amenities and the latest technology, the terminal “will expand SAT’s capacity and deliver an elevated travel experience for millions.”
The construction of the new terminal is part of the airport’s Terminal Development Program (TDP), which will guide future development of the airfield, terminal facilities, ground access and support infrastructure over the next 20 years. TDP is the cornerstone of Elevate/SAT, a $2.5 billion expansion and capital improvements plan to enhance SAT, the customer experience and the San Antonio region. Elevate/SAT is the largest capital improvement plan that the City of San Antonio has undertaken, according to a release.
Over its lifespan, the economic impact of TDP is estimated to be $2.8 billion and is anticipated to generate more than 16,000 new jobs. TDP is the result of a multi-year collaboration to address the San Antonio region’s rapid growth. The project was unanimously supported by San Antonio City Council in November 2021.
“This new terminal will help the airport accomplish even more continued growth, fostering the development of important connections and business opportunities for our region,” says San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “It will strengthen our position as a hub for global business, develop key industries that are economic drivers for our region, connect our local companies to new markets and bring in visitors who will contribute to our local economy.”
The new terminal is scheduled for completion in 2028. Construction has begun throughout the airport’s terminals and roadways. Hensel Phelps is the general contractor, and Corgan and Lake Flato are the architects.
More than 10 million passengers fly in and out of SAT each year, an average of 27,000 per day. Last month marked the airport’s busiest on record.
— Kristin Harlow