New $2.6bn Terminal 3 West Modernisation project to expand San Francisco International Airport takes off

Plans for a $2.6bn construction project at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to renovate one of their terminals are underway. The Terminal 3 West Modernisation project, which was originally proposed in 2020 though subsequently postponed that year, looks to create 200,000 square feet of additional space. “We want our residents to be proud of their hometown airport and for visitors to experience what makes our region great the moment they step off an airplane,” says Mayor of San Francisco, London Breed.

What are the new state-of-the-art features that are environmentally sustainable?  

SFO are targeting this project to achieve LEED Platinum certification, which is the world’s most widely used green building rating system, and the highest level of certification for sustainability in building management and construction. Features of this construction include, displacement ventilation, low carbon steel and concrete, energy smart baggage handling, and health-friendly materials.

“This Terminal 3 West Modernisation project is another major step that will ensure SFO continues to reflect the innovation, sustainability, and diversity that make San Francisco such an amazing place”, continues Mayor Breed.

For the influx of international passengers that will arrive to Terminal 3, direct access to the Customs Hall located in the international terminal will be provided via a new Federal Inspection Service (FIS) sterile connector. It will also create a welcoming new exterior façade greeting travellers curb side, more space for check-in, including state-of-the-art self-bag drop, and new security checkpoints, including one on the mezzanine level for AirTrain passengers.

“We are excited to launch this renovation and expansion project for Terminal 3,” said SFO Airport Director, Ivar C. Satero. “Our goal is to create an extraordinary airport experience for our guests, leading the way in sustainability and innovation, and we expect this project will once again raise the bar for what travellers can look forward to at SFO.”

The project also includes a new six-story building which will house both airline lounges and operational office space. The renovated and expanded western half is expected to open in fall 2027, with the six-story building opening in early 2028. A renovated check-in lobby on the eastern end of Terminal 3 is expected to open in early 2029.

What impact will this expansion have on the airport and the local economy?

The existing western half of Terminal 3, which is 650,000 square feet, will get an expanded security checkpoint and new passenger amenities. The new space that this project will create will also allow for an expansion of the food, beverage, and retail sectors of the airport.

At its peak, the project is anticipated to employ 500-600 workers and is targeting to award over $173m in contracts to Local Business Enterprises (LBE).

United Airlines make up their largest carrier, accounting for 45.1% of seats as of 2022 figures, with flights operating out of Terminal 3 predominantly domestic, now increasingly have expanded more international routes.   

“We are always looking for ways to continue growing our operation in the San Francisco Bay Area, so we are thrilled that these state-of-the-art improvements to airport facilities will entice even more people to visit us here,” says Lori Augustine, Vice President of Airport Operations for United’s SFO Hub. “We’ve had an incredible partnership with the airport for many decades, and our work with them on the T3 West project is a symbol of our commitment to San Francisco and the faith we have in this city as one of the most desirable places to live, work, and visit.”

During the construction, a temporary walkway will allow passengers to traverse from various terminals and boarding areas around the project site. This will be available from the holiday season 2024.