Salt Lake City Airport Nears Completion of 5 Billion Dollar Upgrade

Salt Lake City International Airport: Nearing the Finish Line of a Monumental Overhaul

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is on the final approach of a massive, multi-billion dollar redevelopment project that began over a decade ago. This ambitious undertaking, known as “The New SLC,” is replacing outdated facilities with a modern, efficient, and aesthetically pleasing airport designed to serve the growing needs of Utah and the Intermountain West. The latest phase, unveiled in the fall of 2025, marks a significant milestone, bringing the project tantalizingly close to its scheduled 2026 completion. This isn’t just a simple renovation; it’s a complete reimagining of the airport, making it the first new hub airport built in the U.S. in the 21st century.

The significance of this project extends beyond just providing a better travel experience. The New SLC is a critical piece of infrastructure that supports the region’s economic growth, tourism, and status as a major hub for Delta Air Lines. The phased construction has allowed the airport to remain fully operational while undergoing this massive transformation. With each new phase, passengers have gained access to more efficient terminals, state-of-the-art amenities, and a facility that reflects the natural beauty of Utah. The latest additions are a clear signal that the years of construction are culminating in a world-class airport ready for the future.

The Final Phases: A Glimpse into the New SLC

The journey to the New SLC has been a marathon, not a sprint, with construction unfolding in carefully orchestrated phases. The first phase, completed in late 2020, introduced the main terminal and parts of Concourses A and B. Subsequent phases involved demolishing the old structures and building out the new concourses. A pivotal moment came in October 2024 with the opening of a central tunnel connecting the two concourses, drastically improving passenger flow and cutting down on walking times.

The Swankiest Phase Yet: New Gates, Lounges, and Local Flavor

The most recent phase of construction, completed in the fall of 2025, has brought some of the most anticipated additions to the airport. Ten new gates have opened in Concourse B, which will be used by Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. This expansion is crucial for reducing congestion during peak travel times, which helps improve on-time performance and shortens aircraft taxi times. More gates also translate to increased revenue for the airport from landing fees and gate rentals.

Beyond the gates, this phase elevates the passenger experience with the introduction of two luxurious lounges. A new 34,000-square-foot Delta Sky Club, the second at SLC and the second largest in Delta’s entire network, offers seating for 600 guests. This addition more than doubles Delta’s lounge capacity at the airport. Joining the Sky Club is a new American Express Centurion Lounge, complete with an outdoor terrace, providing another premium space for travelers to relax and recharge.

This phase also brings a taste of Utah to the airport with the opening of six new concession areas. Local brands like Aubergine Kitchen and Moab Brewery are featured, giving travelers a chance to experience local food and drink. These are complemented by other retail options, including a store with merchandise from Utah’s National Parks, ensuring that the airport serves as an extension of the Utah experience.

“It’s really amazing to be that close to the conclusion of the project,” said Bill Wyatt, Executive Director of Salt Lake City International Airport, reflecting on the progress.

Accessibility and Future-Proofing

In addition to the new gates and concessions, this phase also saw the opening of the airport’s third sensory room. Located at the western end of Concourse B, this quiet space is designed to assist passengers with sensory processing challenges, making the airport more accessible and inclusive for all travelers. This thoughtful addition underscores the project’s commitment to creating a positive experience for every passenger.

The entire redevelopment is a forward-looking endeavor. The decision to add more gates in the final buildout of Concourse B was made during the COVID-19 pandemic, after gauging airline interest and anticipating future demand. The central tunnel was designed to potentially accommodate a future tram system for access to a possible third concourse, demonstrating the long-term vision for the airport’s growth.

The project’s design also incorporates sustainability, with a focus on energy-efficient systems and a layout that reduces aircraft fuel consumption and emissions. The structures have been engineered to be seismically resilient, a crucial feature given the airport’s proximity to the Wasatch Fault.

The Big Picture: A $5.1 Billion Transformation

The New SLC is a monumental public works project, with a total price tag of $5.1 billion. This investment is funded not by taxpayers, but through a combination of airport funds, passenger and customer facility charges, bonds, and federal grants. The economic impact of the project is projected to be significant, supporting thousands of jobs during construction and positioning the airport as a powerful economic engine for the state for decades to come.

When the final phase is completed in the fall of 2026, the airport will boast a total of 94 gates and over 100 new concession areas. The final 11 gates are scheduled to open in October 2026, bringing the massive construction project to a close. The result will be a facility that can comfortably handle up to 34 million passengers annually, a significant increase in capacity that will allow SLC to accommodate future growth in both domestic and international travel.

Concluding Section

The latest phase of the Salt Lake City International Airport’s expansion is more than just an addition of gates and lounges; it’s a clear indication that a decade-long vision is becoming a reality. The project has successfully navigated the complexities of building a new airport on the footprint of the old one, all while maintaining operations. The result is a facility that is not only more efficient and spacious but also one that reflects the unique character of its location.

As the final pieces of the puzzle fall into place, The New SLC is poised to deliver on its promise of providing a world-class travel experience. The project stands as a testament to long-term planning and a commitment to investing in critical infrastructure. By 2026, Salt Lake City will have an airport that is not just new, but truly a 21st-century gateway to the world.

FAQ

Question: When will the entire Salt Lake City International Airport expansion be finished? Answer: The final phase of the project is expected to be completed by the fall of 2026, with the final 11 gates opening in October of that year.

Question: What is the total cost of The New SLC project? Answer: The total cost of the redevelopment program is $5.1 billion.

Question: How is the airport expansion being funded? Answer: The project is funded through a combination of airport funds, passenger and customer facility charges, bonds, and federal grants. It is not funded by local taxpayers.

Sources: KSL.com, Salt Lake International Airport