‍SAN ANTONIO  — San Antonio International Airport (SAT) has secured a US$13.3 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support the construction of a new terminal. 

The funding comes through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is part of the FAA’s Airport Terminal Program, which helps airports across the country expand and modernize their facilities.

This grant will be directly allocated toward work on the SAT’s upcoming terminal, a key component of its US$2.5 billion multi-phase expansion plan. The goal is to improve capacity, update aging infrastructure, and prepare for the region’s rapid growth.

A Major Step Toward SAT’s Long-Term Growth

This grant is a big win for the airport’s terminal development program. Once completed, it will feature up to 17 new gates, expanded TSA screening areas, upgraded baggage systems, and modern passenger amenities, including larger waiting areas, improved food and retail options, and enhanced accessibility features.

City leaders have described the upcoming terminal as the largest and most important capital improvement project San Antonio has ever undertaken. The new terminal project carries a price tag exceeding US$1.2 billion. 

Currently, SAT handles more than 10 million travelers each year. With San Antonio’s steady growth, airport officials say the city needs a modern terminal that can keep up with future demand.

More Than Just Catching Up

Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports for the City of San Antonio, said the project is about looking ahead, not just solving today’s problems. The goal is to plan for the region's air travel over the coming decades. He called the grant a key milestone that shows confidence in the airport’s future.

The funding will help with the design phase and early construction work. The city anticipates breaking ground on the new terminal in 2026, with a targeted opening in 2028.

Building on Past Investments

This is not the first time SAT has received help from the federal program. Last year, the airport was awarded $20 million for terminal improvements. Combined with the new grant, SAT is now well-positioned to move ahead with its largest expansion yet.

The improvements aren’t just about adding space. They’ll also include better baggage handling, smoother security checkpoints, and more space for concessions and passenger comfort.

What This Means for Travelers

For now, not much has changed for folks flying out of San Antonio. The terminals still look the same, and the construction hasn’t kicked off just yet. But behind the scenes, there’s a lot already in motion. Teams are working on the early design, determining how the new terminal will fit into the space, and planning everything from the location of the new gates to the operation of the baggage system.

Once things get moving, travelers will start to see the difference. The airport is going to feel more open, up-to-date, and easier to navigate. This US$13.3 million isn’t the whole budget, but it’s a big step. It helps turn those long-term plans into something real, and it keeps San Antonio on track as more people come and go through the city every year.

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