Photo Credit: San Francisco International Airport
Construction is underway on the $2.6 billion modernization project San Francisco International Airport, a renovation and expansion of the western half of Terminal 3, a United Airlines hub. The project includes a seismic retrofit, an expanded security checkpoint and a number of new passenger amenities. Some 200,000 square feet will be added to the existing 650,000 square feet of space for additional food and retail outlets. That expansion is scheduled to debut in the fall of 2027.
New Features for SFO Terminal 3
Plans call for a new exterior facade, as well as additional check-in space with a self-service bag drop. New security checkpoints will be added, including one for AirTrain passengers conveniently located on the mezzanine level. International passenger arrivals to Terminal 3 will have direct access to the Customs Hall by way of a new Federal Inspection Service connector to the International Terminal.
A six-story building also is being constructed and will be home to airline lounges and operational office space. That new structure is expected to debut in early 2028. The check-in lobby on the eastern end of Terminal 3 will be renovated following the west modernization project and will open in early 2029.
To minimize inconveniences during construction, a temporary walkway will allow passengers to access different terminals and boarding areas. That will be in use by the coming holiday travel season.
"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," said 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."
Expanding With Sustainability in Mind
Airport officials hope to achieve LEED Platinum certification for the modernization project. Among the sustainability features will be daylight harvesting (using natural light to offset the need for electric lighting), displacement ventilation, on-site photovoltaic cells, waste heat recovery, low-carbon steel and concrete, energy-smart baggage handling, dynamic glazing, recycled water, hydration stations, health-friendly materials and green-building education.
As many as 500 to 600 workers should be employed for the project at its peak, and $173 million in contracts is expected for local business enterprises.