SFO anticipates welcoming 16.2 million passengers between Memorial Day and Labor Day
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is gearing up for a bustling summer travel season, with officials forecasting a surge in passenger numbers and unveiling a slate of enhancements designed to improve the travel experience.
In a press statement, the airport authority says that the season officially kicks off on May 23, when about 160,000 travellers are expected to pass through the airport.
The statement adds that in total, SFO anticipates welcoming 16.2 million passengers between Memorial Day and Labor Day, a 4 pc rise over last summer and representing 93 pc of pre-pandemic levels.
According to the statement, this summer also marks the implementation of the TSA’s real ID requirement, effective May 7. All passengers aged 18 and older must present a real ID-compliant licence or another accepted form of identification at security checkpoints.
The airport authority says that parking is expected to be at or near capacity throughout the summer.
It adds that airport officials recommend using public transit or ride-sharing services, but travellers who need to park should reserve spots early via SFO’s online booking system.
The statement adds that Harvey Milk Terminal 1 is set to debut new dining options, including Balboa Café, Taste of the City and the SF Eats Food Hall. Meanwhile, the modernisation of Terminal 3 West, at a cost of USD 2.6 billion, is underway, promising expanded amenities, a larger security checkpoint and more concessions.
The statement says that the expanded terminal section is slated to open in fall 2027, but an interim corridor will maintain seamless connections between terminals during construction.