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SAN DIEGO — San Diego International Airport (SAN) turned a new page in its history this week as the first phase of the long-awaited New Terminal 1 officially opened on September 23, 2025. A ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together executives from the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, partner airlines, and the Turner-Flatiron construction team to mark the occasion.
The New T1 replaces the airport’s original Terminal 1, which had served travelers for nearly six decades. Officials described the opening as the start of a new era for San Diego aviation, offering passengers a modern, efficient, and welcoming space that reflects the region's spirit.
Comfort, Convenience at the Core
According to a news release, the newly opened Phase 1A features 19 new gates, a spacious ticketing hall equipped with 69 kiosks and 66 counters, and a large security checkpoint with 13 lanes designed to expedite the screening process. The baggage claim area has been upgraded with seven carousels, each capable of processing 4,000 bags per hour.
Travelers will also find 90,000 square feet of dining and retail space. The lineup of restaurants and cafes features local favorites like Lofty Coffee and Ambrogio 15, alongside national names such as McDonald’s. Additionally, shops like Liberty Station Gifts and SAN Supply Co. offer a wide range of items, from souvenirs to travel essentials.
For those who like a view with their meal, the terminal even offers an outdoor dining area overlooking San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline.
A Showcase of Art and Design
One of the most striking features of the New T1 is its all-glass façade, named “Luminous Wave” by artist James Carpenter. The design features 537 curved glass panels that not only brighten the terminal with natural light but also reduce glare and heat, striking a balance between aesthetics and function.
Inside, travelers are greeted by a collection of public art pieces commissioned specifically for the terminal. Works like RISE by Matthew Mazzotta and Torrey Pines by Nova Jiang highlight the cultural and natural identity of the San Diego region.
Building for the Future
The Airport Authority has emphasized that sustainability lies at the heart of the New T1 program. The facility operates on 100 percent carbon-free electricity, while the nearby five-story parking plaza features more than 250 EV charging stations and an additional 250 EV-ready spaces. A 900,000-gallon cistern captures and reuses stormwater, and airfield improvements cut down emissions by replacing fuel trucks with an underground delivery system.
The design is also built to withstand future climate impacts, with the terminal pursuing LEED-Gold certification.
More to Come in Phase 1B
The full Terminal 1 project comes with a price tag of US$3.8 billion, making it one of the largest infrastructure undertakings in the city. Phase 1B is scheduled to begin in early 2026 and will eventually add 11 more gates, bringing the total count to 30 by 2028.
Beyond the terminal itself, more than four miles of new roadways and a dual-level arrivals and departures system aim to ease traffic congestion. The Terminal 1 Parking Plaza, already open, offers 5,200 spaces just steps from the terminal doors.
Economic Impact
The new terminal is more than just a passenger hub. According to the Airport Authority, the project is expected to generate over US$4.5 billion for the San Diego economy, create 25,300 jobs, and yield US$127 million in tax revenue for local governments.
“An airport is often the first and last impression of a city,” said Gil Cabrera, Airport Authority Board Chair. “With the New T1, San Diego now has a facility we can be proud of for generations to come.”
Looking Ahead
The opening of the New Terminal 1 marks a milestone not just for the airport, but for the broader San Diego community. What once began as a plan in 2021 has now taken shape as a modern, sustainable gateway connecting the city to the world.
As construction continues on the remaining phases, the New T1 is set to further elevate San Diego International Airport’s reputation as one of the busiest single-runway airports on the planet.
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Featured image: SAN
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