The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority will begin construction on Phase 1B of the New Terminal 1 project at San Diego International Airport on September 8.
The arrivals roadway connecting Terminals 1 and 2 will close on that date to provide safe access to the construction site, requiring vehicle detours through alternative on-airport routes.
Pedestrian access between the terminals will remain available via an existing outdoor walkway through September 22. A free Terminal Loop Shuttle will also operate daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. for passengers and staff. The existing Terminal 1 will permanently close on the night of September 22 following the departure of final flights, after which demolition will begin.
Phase 1B to Add Gates and Amenities
Phase 1B will be built on the footprint of the current Terminal 1. Once complete, it will add 11 more gates to the new terminal, as well as expanded passenger amenities including customer lounges and upgraded infrastructure systems. The new terminal is part of a broader redevelopment plan known as the New T1.
The project aims to enhance passenger experience and operational capacity at the airport, which is the third-busiest in California and among the world’s busiest single-runway commercial airports. Construction-related job creation for the entire New T1 project is estimated at between 15,000 and 20,000 positions.
Background on the New T1 Project
The New T1 project officially broke ground in November 2021. It includes the full replacement of the original Terminal 1, major improvements to the airfield, enhanced transportation connectivity to and from the airport, and a new administration building. The project’s total budget is $3.8 billion.
According to the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, SAN generates nearly $12 billion in annual economic activity for the region. The redevelopment is designed to support growing passenger demand while improving safety, efficiency, and customer service across airport operations.
Detour Maps and Updates Available
Detailed detour maps for vehicles and pedestrians are available on the airport’s website, along with an animated overview of the changes. Real-time construction updates and traveler information are also available at san.org.
