Salt Lake City International Airport’s Over Five Billion Dollars Renovation Reaches Final Stages with New Gates, Art Installations, and Upgraded Passenger Services Set to Enhance the US Traveler Experience by 2026

Published on June 21, 2025

Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) is on the verge of completing one of the largest and most ambitious airport renovation projects in U.S. history. With a total investment of $5.2 billion, this extensive renovation is transforming SLC into a cutting-edge global travel hub. Slated for completion in 2026, the airport will boast expanded terminals, new amenities, state-of-the-art security systems, and unique artistic elements, enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers.

This transformation is particularly meaningful following the passing of the program director, whose vision and final message to the team—“You need to finish”—continues to inspire the workforce. His dedication has propelled the construction crew to work tirelessly to deliver a world-class airport that exceeds all expectations.

A Decade-Long Vision Unfolding

The $5.2 billion renovation of Salt Lake City International Airport is being executed in four overlapping phases, with each stage strategically planned to minimize disruption and maximize operational efficiency. These phases, which began more than ten years ago, are designed to accommodate the growing demand for air travel while creating a modern, state-of-the-art facility.

When completed, the airport will feature ninety-four gates, including sixteen new gates in the eastern expansion of Concourse B, significantly increasing the airport’s capacity and enabling it to handle the rising number of passengers and flights.

The project’s first phase, completed in late 2020, laid the groundwork with the construction of the central terminal and western sections of Concourse A and Concourse B. The 909,000-square-foot central terminal was designed to streamline passenger movement, enhancing both space and accessibility while improving overall traffic flow.

Phase two, which concluded in 2023, saw the demolition of the original terminal—which had served its purpose for over 60 years—and the completion of the eastern part of Concourse A. Additionally, the construction of a central tunnel that connects both concourses began, further improving the airport’s functionality and passenger convenience.

Phase three focused on the completion of the 1,000-foot tunnel linking Concourse A and Concourse B, along with the opening of the Concourse B plaza. These areas were opened to the public in late 2024, providing travelers with access to the newly improved sections of the airport. Now, attention has shifted to the final phase of construction, which will bring the airport to full operational capacity.

The Final Stage: A Future-Ready Airport

As the renovation enters its final phase—phase four—several key milestones are set to be completed. This includes the addition of five new gates to Concourse B by autumn 2025, with the remaining five gates to follow shortly thereafter. Upon completion, the airport will have a total of ninety-four gates, significantly enhancing its capacity and flexibility.

Additionally, several premium amenities will open as part of this phase. A new 34,000-square-foot Delta Air Lines lounge and a 16,000-square-foot American Express Centurion Lounge are set to debut in late 2025. These lounges will offer luxurious spaces for travelers to relax, dine, and work before their flights, providing a superior level of comfort and service.

The final touches on vertical construction, jet bridge installations, and paving are also scheduled for completion during this phase. Once these elements are finished, the airport will be ready to welcome passengers to its newly revamped facilities, with most areas slated for an October 2026 opening. Some minor paving work will continue into early 2027, ensuring that the airport’s infrastructure is fully optimized.

Overcoming Engineering Challenges

Building a modern airport in a seismically active region and on a dry lake bed presented unique engineering challenges. The airport’s location, combined with a water table just seven feet below the surface, meant that special measures were required to stabilize the ground and ensure the safety of the construction.

To address these challenges, engineers used an innovative technique to prevent liquefaction during earthquakes. They drilled hundreds of three-foot-diameter holes up to forty-five feet deep and filled them with small stones. This method created a stable foundation, ensuring the structural integrity of the new terminal and concourses, even in the event of a seismic disturbance.

These engineering feats, combined with careful planning and expert execution, will result in a resilient airport infrastructure designed to withstand natural challenges and provide a secure and comfortable experience for passengers.

Technological and Operational Advancements

One of the major highlights of the renovation is the expanded baggage handling system, which will be capable of managing seven miles of conveyor belts designed to accommodate oversized luggage. This system will drastically improve the speed and efficiency of baggage processing, reducing wait times and enhancing overall operational efficiency.

The airport will also feature upgraded security systems, improved passenger flow management, and enhanced accessibility. These upgrades will help ensure that the airport can handle large volumes of passengers while maintaining the highest standards of safety and comfort.

Aesthetic and Cultural Enhancements

In addition to its functional upgrades, the renovation includes several artistic elements that celebrate Utah’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. One of the most striking features is “The River”, an abstract art installation suspended from the ceiling of the central tunnel. Designed by artist Gordon Huether, this installation mimics the water that once flowed through the site, serving as a tribute to the area’s natural history.

Another notable artistic feature is “The Canyon”, a mesmerizing sculpture composed of fabric-wrapped aluminum fins. This artwork evokes the stunning landscapes of Utah, casting dynamic light patterns that resemble the Northern Lights, creating an awe-inspiring atmosphere for travelers passing through the terminal.

These artistic elements help create a distinct sense of place, offering travelers an immersive experience that reflects the beauty and cultural significance of Utah.

The Road Ahead: A Transformative Future

With the completion of the renovation scheduled for 2027, Salt Lake City International Airport will soon become a modern, efficient, and artistically inspired transportation hub. The transformation will enhance the airport’s capacity, improve the passenger experience, and position SLC as a leading global airport.

As the project nears completion, the team continues to honor the program director’s final message, ensuring that his vision for a world-class airport becomes a reality. The renovation represents not only a physical transformation of the airport but also a reflection of Salt Lake City’s ambition to become a key player in the global aviation industry.