Airport Update

Gateway to Tomorrow

San Francisco International Airport welcomes the newest technology and guest amenities. BY MARY MELNICK

IN THE PROCESS OF CONSTRUCTING THE NEXT GENERATION OF FACILITIES, THE AIRPORT IS TRANSFORMING THE PROPERTY THROUGH FORWARD-THINKING PLANNING, BOLD DESIGN, CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY AND MORE.

Public Pride:

Display at Harvey Milk Terminal 1

PHOTO: © SAN FRANCISCO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT S an Francisco International Airport strives to bring exceptional service and safety to its guests, employees and service providers. It aims to deliver a quality guest experience and remain on the leading edge of environmental and social sustainability efforts while still operating an effective and successful business.

Current renovations from the inside out will completely revolutionize air travel at SFO. The airport’s dedication to redefining tomorrow’s travel experience starts with a commitment to its travelers, airline partners, shopkeepers, restaurants and service providers as well as the community. In the process of constructing the next generation of facilities, the airport is transforming the property through forward-thinking planning, bold design, cutting-edge technology and more. The airport plans to create spacious boarding areas with views of the bustling runways. With the new facilities, SFO brings the excitement back to air travel while committing to remaining green and healthy. Modern materials and technology will help the airport achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) status. One of the latest projects, the Harvey Milk Terminal 1 redevelopment plan, will change the guest experience with 25 gates (including three international swing gates), a stateof-the-art ticketing checkpoint, popular Bay Area restaurants and shops, and stunning pieces of custom art. The new terminal facilitates an easy transfer to the A gates in the International Terminal. The Harvey Milk Terminal, the first in the world named after an LGBTQ+ leader, honors the life and legacy of the first openly gay elected official in California’s history. An exhibit in the front lobby invites travelers to learn more about his contributions to San Francisco through photos and campaign materials that give a glimpse into his life and death.

Although paused during COVID-19, construction just restarted, with completion expected by 2024.

The International Terminal will see a revamp as well. The renovations will double the security screening checkpoint in order to reduce wait time, all while providing an easier navigation experience for guests.

The project will also expand the screening checkpoints to 10 lanes and update areas to support future automated screening lanes. Improved amenities for passengers include more comfortable lounges; more power outlets; and updated restrooms including women’s, men’s, all-gender, companion care and nursery facilities.