San Francisco International Airport breaks ground on Terminal 1

4th July 2016

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has broken ground on its US$2.4bn Terminal 1 renovation project, which will include a new centralized security checkpoint, consolidated baggage handling systems, dining and retail concessions, and post-security connecting walkways. The project will be completed in phases by 2024.

The project will include the demolition of existing facilities and reconstruction of a new Terminal 1 Center and Boarding Area B. An Interim Boarding Area B, made up of nine fully-operations gates, will be developed while future facilities are constructed.

Upon completion, Boarding Area B will feature a total of 24 gates, including six gates that can accommodate international arrivals by providing direct access to the US Customs & Border Protection’s Federal Inspection Area. Connecting walkways located post-security will provide easy access to International Boarding Area A and Boarding Area C.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony on June 29, San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee said, “The renovation of Terminal 1 is another milestone in our city’s effort to keep SFO a world class airport, and on this day we also celebrate another milestone for SFO in Airport Director John L Martin’s final public appearance before his retirement.

“For more than 20 years, John’s leadership has transformed SFO into a world-class airport, reflecting all that is great about the San Francisco Bay Area. The renovation of Terminal One is a perfect retirement gift, and the completed facility will serve as a tribute to his visionary leadership.”

“With the renovation of Terminal 1, my role at SFO comes full circle,” commented Martin. “When I assumed this position, the face of the airport was changing dramatically, with the construction of a new International Terminal. Over the course of 20 years, it has been my pleasure to continually take our airport experience to new heights. The Terminal 1 renovation will once again surprise and delight travelers at SFO, delivering on the goal to create an exceptional airport experience.”

Phasing schedule
• September 2016: Interim Boarding Area B opens with nine gates.
• December 2018: New Boarding Area B opens with nine gates.
• June 2019: New Boarding Area expands to 17 gates.
• September 2020: New Boarding Area B reaches full capacity of 24 gates.
• Mid-2024: Terminal 1 Center, refreshed Boarding Area C complete.