Quick Links A 20-year infrastructure support SAT is embarking on a $2.5 billion expansion journey ELEVATE/SAT Elevating San Antonio International Airport (SAT) to new heights The Terminal Development Plan (TDP) A wide range of terminal amenities Ground load facility upgrades Approximately 37,000 square feet of additional space A significant economic impact Over $2.8 billion over the TDP's lifespan
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is the primary airport in the city, located eight miles north of downtown. Averaging nearly 260 daily flights (departures and arrivals), the airport serves 45 destinations in the United States, Mexico, and Europe. Fourteen airlines operate domestic and international routes from SAT, making it the 44th busiest airport in the country by passenger traffic.
In July, San Antonio International Airport (SAT) saw its busiest month on record with over 1.03 million passengers in and out of SAT, beating the previous monthly record of 1 million passengers in July 2023. The Director of Airports at the City of San Antonio Aviation Department, Jesus Saenz, commented,
"We're continuing to see record-breaking passenger levels at SAT. We are growing every day with new destinations and flights being added yearly. The more you continue to choose to fly from SAT, the more airlines respond to that demand and add more service."
Photo: Austin Deppe | Shutterstock July's record marks the second time the airport has surpassed one million passengers. The back-to-back record-breaking monthly streak since May 2023 is still going strong. SAT's busiest year recorded is 2023, with nearly 10.7 million passengers.
The airport is currently undergoing a five-year expansion plan, which includes a new terminal, renovation of the existing Terminal A, and airfield and roadway upgrades. With the completion target of 2028, the airport is preparing to address the projected growth in passenger numbers. This article highlights several facts about the SAT's expansion plan.
1 A 20-year infrastructure support SAT is embarking on a $2.5 billion expansion journey Accommodate current and future air service expansion in nonstop destinations, frequencies, and up-gauging Modernization is essential for passenger growth and retention at the SAT Enable a business travel and tourism-driven economy to which SAT contributes approximately $5 billion annually Provide an outstanding first and last impression of the city and region
San Antonio International Airport breaks ground on the new terminal as part of the Terminal Development Program (TDP). The TDP groundbreaking is much more than the official kick-off to the plan - guiding the future development of the terminal facilities, aprons and airfields around it, ground access equipment, and overall airport infrastructure.
Photo: Austin Deppe| Shutterstock
The TDP aims to improve and enhance passenger experience through SAT. Costing an estimated $2.5 billion, it is the largest capital expansion plan the City of San Antonio has undertaken. According to Ron Nirenberg, the Mayor of the City of San Antonio,
"SAT continues to rise to the occasion and meet the demand of our region's expansion. This new terminal will help the airport accomplish even more continued growth, fostering the development of important connections and business opportunities for our region. 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 TDP is expected to contribute significantly to the city's economy both directly (through the creation of jobs) and indirectly (through the expansion of services for future travelers).
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Posts 3 2 ELEVATE/SAT Elevating San Antonio International Airport (SAT) to new heights Airport Police department TSA K-9 facility Airside Operations (Including airside maintenance) Airport Emergency Center (AEC) Airport Integrated Control Center (AICC) Badge and ID department IT & Communications Center
The ELEVATE/SAT vision is based on dream, build, and elevate principles, representing the design and implementation of an elevated passenger experience through SAT airport. From the moment travelers set foot at the airport to the lift-off of their flight, SAT aims to offer world-class experience at the mid-size airport.
As one of the fastest-growing medium-sized airports in the country, SAT is gearing up for future passenger growth. The comprehensive development plan focuses on every aspect of the airport experience. Whether it is facilities, ground access, or runways, the development plan hits all touchpoints.
Photo: San Antonio International Airport
According to SAT Airport,
"ELEVATE/SAT represents the design and creation of an elevated airport experience that our community deserves. From improvements to facilities and runways and the development of a world-class terminal complex, ELEVATE/SAT is taking our airport to new heights."
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Posts 2 3 The Terminal Development Plan (TDP) A wide range of terminal amenities Up to 17 domestic and international gates by mid-2028 to accommodate projected growth through 2040 850,000+ sq. ft. of new terminal space with 41,000 sq. ft. of new concession space 29,000+ sq. ft. club lounge space Larger gate hold rooms for enhanced passenger comfort Riparian Paseo entry and indoor courtyard to enhance the sense of place and River Walk feel. The new central passenger screening area provides an all-access pass to retail and concessions New, modern Federal Inspection Station for expanded international air service Roadway improvements to improve traffic flow and remove congestion
The TDP is adding a brand-new terminal and apron, which will be connected to the existing Terminal B[ building. The new terminal, when completed in mid-2028, will feature up to 17 domestic and international passenger gates, accommodating the projected passenger growth through the next two decades.
Over 40,000 square feet of space will be designated for retail and concessions, allowing ample room during transit. The new space will have larger gate hold rooms featuring more-comfortable seating and amenities for departing and transit passengers.
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Posts 4 Ground load facility upgrades Approximately 37,000 square feet of additional space Three new ground gates located south of Terminal A Integrated Federal Inspection Station for international arrivals Two levels of seating areas for passengers Dedicated charging stations for electronic devices Workstation areas High tabletop stations A lactation room Additional food and retail options
The airport is adding a brand-new ground load facility, which will feature three new ground gates and nearly 37,000 square feet of space. The space will be primarily used for airside boarding and deboarding of passengers. The facility will also be equipped with a federal inspection station for international arrivals.
Photo: San Antonio International Airport
The area will feature two levels of seating, dedicated workstations, charging stations, and food and retail areas. The airport development program is expected to guide the airport's growth and infrastructure needs over the next twenty years.
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Posts 1 5 A significant economic impact Over $2.8 billion over the TDP's lifespan Part of the city's rapid-growth plan Expected to generate over 16,000 jobs Anticipated completion by 2028
The Terminal Development Plan (TDP) is expected to significantly impact the local and state economy, boasting over $2.8 billion over its lifespan. The project is anticipated to generate more than 16,000 new jobs during its design, construction, and maintenance phases.
Photo: San Antonio International Airport
TDP is part of the multi-year plan for the region's rapid growth and future-looking sustainability. Supported unanimously by the San Antonio City Council in November 2021, the TDP is scheduled to be complete and functional in 2028. According to Erik Walsh, San Antonio City Manager,
"This project is a significant economic driver for our region. Its development will create thousands of jobs, stimulate local businesses and bring long-term employment opportunities. Bevond the immediate economic benefits, it will lay the foundation for sustained growth, making our region a destination for innovation, investment and prosperity."
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