San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Redevelopment continues to progress through its multi-phase construction program, following the successful opening of the first phase of the new terminal in September 2025. The project, initially valued at approximately $3 billion and now estimated at about $3.8 billion, is transforming one of the busiest single-runway airports in the United States through new passenger facilities, expanded gate capacity, upgraded roadways, and modern transportation infrastructure. As of 2026, construction activities remain underway on the second phase, which will complete the full terminal build-out by early 2028.
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Current Status Update (2026)
The project reached a major milestone on September 23, 2025, when the first phase of the new Terminal 1 officially opened to passengers. The completed phase introduced 19 new gates, outdoor check-in facilities, modern passenger amenities, a central security checkpoint, and a new parking plaza with approximately 5,200 spaces. It also included nearly five miles of roadway improvements, bridges, and upgraded access infrastructure.
Following the opening, airport authorities permanently closed the former Terminal 1 and commenced demolition works to make way for Phase 1B. Construction crews are currently developing 11 additional gates, expanded passenger facilities, and supporting airside infrastructure that will bring the terminal’s total capacity to 30 gates. Full completion is targeted for early 2028, while certain airside elements are expected to continue through mid-2028.
The redevelopment remains the largest infrastructure project in the history of San Diego International Airport. The facility is being delivered through a progressive design-build model that allows airport operations to continue throughout construction.
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1: New Terminal Designed for Long-Term Growth
The new Terminal 1 significantly expands passenger capacity and operational efficiency. The facility replaces a terminal originally built in the 1960s and expands from approximately 336,000 square feet to nearly one million square feet. The completed terminal will feature 30 gates, advanced baggage handling systems, outdoor terraces, expanded concessions, improved roadway access, and sustainability features designed to reduce energy consumption and support future growth.
Project designers have incorporated extensive sustainability measures, including renewable energy integration, electric vehicle charging infrastructure, storm water management systems, and preparations for a future 4MW solar installation. The development is targeting LEED Silver certification for the terminal building and additional sustainability certifications for associated infrastructure.
The San Diego International Airport redevelopment reflects a broader trend of major airport modernization projects across California. Similarly, the recently announced Hollywood Burbank Terminal Project is preparing to open its new $1.3 billion replacement terminal in October 2026. While San Diego is expanding capacity through a multi-phase redevelopment, Hollywood Burbank Airport is replacing its nearly century-old terminal with a modern facility focused on safety, passenger comfort, accessibility, and seismic resilience. Together, the two projects demonstrate how California airports are investing heavily in next-generation aviation infrastructure to accommodate future passenger demand.
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Project Fact Sheet
Project Name: San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Redevelopment Project
Location: San Diego, California, USA
Airport: San Diego International Airport
Project Value: Approximately $3.8 billion
Original Approved Value: Approximately $3 billion
Project Type: Airport terminal replacement and expansion
Delivery Method: Progressive Design-Build
Construction Start: November 2021
Phase 1 Opening: September 23, 2025
Current Status: Phase 1 operational; Phase 1B under construction
Expected Full Completion: Early 2028
Total Gates Upon Completion: 30
Gates Opened in Phase 1: 19
Additional Gates Under Construction: 11
Parking Capacity: Approximately 5,200 spaces
Major Components:
- New passenger terminal
- Central security checkpoint
- Advanced baggage handling systems
- Outdoor passenger terraces
- Parking plaza
- Roadway improvements
- Utility infrastructure upgrades
- Pedestrian bridges
- Sustainability systems
Project Team
Project Owner: San Diego County Regional Airport Authority
Airport Operator: San Diego County Regional Airport Authority
Design-Build Contractor:
Lead Architect: Gensler
Development Leadership: Angela Shafer-Payne
Sustainability and Infrastructure Partners:
- Turner-FlatironDragados Joint Venture
- Airport Authority Engineering Teams
- Utility Infrastructure Contractors
Key Stakeholders:
- Airlines operating at San Diego International Airport
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)
- City of San Diego
- Regional transportation agencies
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