The San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Phase 1B expansion is the ongoing second construction phase of a $3.8 billion modernization project designed to completely replace the airport’s outdated 1960s facilities. Following the successful launch of Phase 1A in September 2025 (which introduced the first 19 gates), crews immediately began demolishing the old Terminal 1 structure to clear space for this next segment. Phase 1B is officially scheduled for full completion in early 2028
On May 5, 2026, San Diego International Airport released new renderings of Terminal 1 Phase 1B, offering the latest view of the project as construction advances toward its early 2028 completion.
The images, released on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, provide a preview of the next stage of the airport’s ongoing terminal redevelopment, highlighting expanded passenger spaces and additional capacity now taking shape on site.
Phase 1B will deliver:
11 additional gates
New amenities, including a children’s play area
Expanded dining and retail options
Terminal 1 Phase 1B new renderings (Credit: San Diego International Airport)
The release coincides with National Travel and Tourism Week, positioning the update as a milestone in the airport’s broader modernization program.
Construction on this phase began in September 2025 following the closure and demolition of the original Terminal 1. Work is progressing as part of a phased delivery strategy that keeps the airport operational while new facilities are built.
FlatironDragados, in joint venture with Turner Construction Company, is leading the civil and infrastructure works, including demolition, utilities, paving, and roadway construction. Gensler serving as the lead design architect for the project
Once complete, the new Terminal 1 will feature a total of 30 gates, replacing the legacy 1960s-era terminal with a modern facility designed to increase capacity, improve passenger flow, and introduce upgraded infrastructure and technology.
The Terminal 1 redevelopment is part of a larger $3.8 billion program that also includes roadway upgrades, airside improvements, and enhanced airport access.
With Phase 1 already in operation, the newly released renderings show how the next stage is moving from construction into visible form, as the project advances toward full completion.
Terminal 1 program
The broader Terminal 1 program, which began construction in November 2021, represents the largest infrastructure project in the airport’s history and recently received a 2026 Build America Merit Award from the Associated General Contractors of America, recognizing its complexity and phased delivery within an active airport environment.
The Terminal 1 redevelopment at San Diego International Airport is part of a broader wave of airport expansion and modernization across California, as major hubs continue upgrading terminals, airside infrastructure, and passenger facilities to meet growing demand.
In Northern California, Sacramento International Airport is also undergoing significant transformation, with active construction underway on terminal expansions, new gates, parking facilities, and roadway improvements as part of its long-term modernization program.
Additionally; while San Diego is advancing a multibillion-dollar terminal replacement project, smaller airports are also planning for long-term growth. Eugene Airport recently unveiled a $450 million master plan aimed at doubling its passenger capacity and supporting additional nonstop destinations.
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Phase 1B – Factsheet
Project overview
- Project: New Terminal 1 – Phase 1B
- Program: Part of the full Terminal 1 replacement program
- Total program value: $3.8 billion
- Construction start (overall program): November 2021
- Phase 1B start: September 2025
- Target completion: Early 2028
Scope (Phase 1B)
- 11 additional gates (expanding total to 30 gates)
- New passenger amenities, including:
- Children’s play area
- Additional restaurants and retail
- Customer lounges
- Expanded security processing and passenger circulation areas
- Integration with previously delivered Phase 1 facilities
Design & capacity
- Continuation of a modern, high-capacity terminal design
- Light-filled interiors and integrated public art
- Improved passenger flow and wayfinding
- Designed to support long-term passenger growth and operational efficiency
Landside & infrastructure (part of Phase 1B works)
- New 5,000-space parking plaza with guidance system
- Three-lane access roadway to reduce congestion
- Nine roadway bridges and upgraded access routes
- Dedicated pedestrian and bicycle pathways
- Provision for future public transit connection
Construction approach
- Delivered via a phased program to maintain full airport operations
- Includes demolition of the legacy Terminal 1 and replacement with new facilities
- Ongoing coordination across airside, landside, and terminal construction zones
Latest update
- New renderings released during National Travel and Tourism Week
- Visuals show Phase 1B facilities actively taking shape ahead of 2028 completion
Recognition
- 2026 Build America Merit Award (Design-Build Building)
- Awarded by Associated General Contractors of America
Project team
- Owner / Operator: San Diego County Regional Airport Authority
- Design-Build General Contractor: Turner-Flatiron Joint Venture
- Lead Architect: Gensler
- Lead Façade Artist: James Carpenter Design Associates
Engineering & Technical Team
- Structural Engineer: Magnusson Klemencic Associates
- Civil Engineers: Kleinfelder | Rick Engineering Company
- Electrical, Mechanical & Plumbing (MEP): BergElectric | Syska Hennessy Group
- Baggage Handling Contractor: Vanderlande
- Systems Integration & Commissioning: CriticalArc
Leave a Reply