The Federal Aviation Administration awarded a $20 million grant to the San Antonio International Airport for its Terminal Development Program.

According to a press release, the funds will be put toward the cost of building the Ground Load Facility in Terminal A, which will add capacity through five new ground gates and allow for new routes by both existing and new airlines.

The airport’s Ground Load Facility, designed by Atkins, will be built south of Terminal A. The 37,000-sqft building will include modern passenger facilities, such as:

Five new ground gates
Integrated Federal Inspection Station for international arrivals
Two levels of seating areas for passengers
Dedicated charging stations for electronic devices, workstation areas, high tabletop stations, and a lactation room
Additional food and retail options

Take a look at what the new Ground Loading Facility could offer passengers. | Rendering via CoSA

The Ground Load Facility project is 30% designed and currently taking bids for the construction of the facility.

San Antonio City Council consideration of the recommended contractor is scheduled for this May. Enabling projects, such as relocating an existing fence, foundation + site work, and setting up utilities, are set to begin in June or July.

“We’ve said all along that the timing of our expansion is perfect because it coincides with the federal government’s historic investment in the nation’s airport infrastructure, particularly airports that are energy efficient and accessible to all users,” said City Manager Erik Walsh in a press release.

Construction on the Ground Load Facility itself will likely begin in early 2024 with a completion date of March 2025.

This news comes only a few weeks after the design renderings and a 3D model of the new terminal were unveiled. The Terminal Development Program was said to be on track, with an expected completion date of Q2 in 2028.