San Antonio International Airport (SAT) held a groundbreaking ceremony on December 10, 2024, for a new terminal that will help accommodate the airport's rapid growth and enhance the region’s connectivity. The expansion is a key component of the airport’s $2.5 billion Elevate/SAT capital improvement plan, the largest infrastructure project undertaken by the City of San Antonio.
The new terminal, which is set to be completed in 2028, will feature up to 17 gates, 800,000 square feet of new terminal space, and a host of new amenities for travelers, including 35,700 square feet of concessions space and 29,000 square feet of club lounge space. The terminal's modern design aims to improve the overall passenger experience, integrating cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of global air travel.
"This groundbreaking is more than just the start of a construction project; it’s the beginning of a new chapter for our airport and our community," said Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports. “As SAT continues to experience record-breaking growth each month, this new terminal will ensure we meet the needs of passengers, businesses, and partners from San Antonio and around the world.”
SAT, already one of the fastest-growing medium-sized airports in the U.S., serves over 10 million passengers annually. Last October, SAT set a new record, surpassing 1 million passengers in a single month for the first time. The expansion is designed to keep pace with this growth, providing increased capacity and more efficient services.
The new terminal is part of the broader Terminal Development Program (TDP), a 20-year initiative aimed at addressing the region’s rising demand for air travel and modernizing airport infrastructure. The project is expected to generate significant economic benefits for San Antonio, with an estimated $2.8 billion in economic impact and the creation of more than 16,000 new jobs.
"This project is a significant economic driver for our region," said City Manager Erik Walsh. "Its development will create thousands of jobs, stimulate local businesses, and bring long-term employment opportunities. Beyond the immediate economic benefits, it will lay the foundation for sustained growth, making our region a destination for innovation, investment, and prosperity."
Mayor Ron Nirenberg highlighted the importance of the new terminal in strengthening San Antonio's position as a key global business hub. "This new terminal will help the airport accomplish even more continued growth, fostering the development of important connections and business opportunities for our region," Nirenberg said. "It will connect local companies to new markets, bring in visitors who will contribute to our local economy, and bolster key industries that are economic drivers for our region."
The terminal’s construction is part of SAT’s strategic development plan, which has been in the works for several years and was unanimously supported by the San Antonio City Council in November 2021. The development is already underway with ongoing construction across the airport’s terminals and roadways.
Passengers are encouraged to visit flysanantonio.com for updates and information regarding ongoing construction and potential travel impacts.
