San Antonio International Airport Receives $30 Million in Grants in 30 Days

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has awarded a total of $30 million in grants to San Antonio International Airport (SAT). The money is funded through the Fiscal Year 2024 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) Airport Terminals Program (ATP), which provides grants for airport terminal development projects to improve the country’s airports and the Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program.

Here is how the $30 million in grants will be used at SAT:

• $18 million is for the new terminal, which will open in 2028 (ATP)
• $12 million is for electrical upgrades in Terminal A (AIG)

“We’re so proud and thankful to have landed these two grants for SAT,” said Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “We had several people working tirelessly behind the scenes to advocate for our community. I’d like to personally thank Senators John Cornyn and Ted Cruz, and Congressmen Greg Casar, Joaquin Castro, Henry Cuellar, Tony Gonzalez and Chip Roy for all their efforts to focus on our transportation needs.”

Jesus Saenz, Director of Airports, San Antonio Airport System, echoed the Mayor’s sentiment.

“Our mission is to provide our travelers an authentic and elevated experience,” Saenz said. “As we grow and expand our operations, these grants allow us to continue to modernize our airport and improve traveler experience.”

City Manager Erik Walsh said the funding news is a big win for our entire region.

“The terminal expansion isn't just about upgrading infrastructure; it's about fueling our city's economic engine and bolstering our connectivity,” Walsh said. “We’re solidifying San Antonio's position as a hub of opportunity and growth.”

In February 2023, the FAA awarded a $20 million grant to SAT for the construction of the Ground Load Facility (GLF), which will open in 2025.

“We are doing our best to keep up with the demand,” Saenz said. “We had our busiest year ever in 2023 with 10.7 million passengers. We can’t wait for the GLF to be ready and we’re just four years out from having our new terminal. Each time we’re awarded more of these grants, it’s an investment in our future.”