Salt Lake City International Airport celebrated the completion of its 12-year redevelopment program on Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026, marking the achievement of the first new hub airport constructed in the United States in the 21st century. The milestone was commemorated with a musical premiere and a celebration themed "Fisher Gateway to the World," highlighting the facility's transformation into a global hub.
A Musical Milestone
The completion of the project, known as The New SLC, was marked by a musical performance by Utah composer Kurt Bestor. The Salt Lake City Department of Airports noted that the redevelopment represents a significant milestone, as it is the first instance of a new hub airport being constructed in the U.S. during this century.
Artistic Completion
As part of the final stages of the project, the airport unveiled its final art installation on Oct. 23, 2026. Titled "Fisher Crossroads to the World," the piece is a suspended installation featuring approximately 2,500 colorful, laser-cut acrylic airplanes. This installation serves as the final artistic addition to the 12-year rebuild program.
Financing the Redevelopment
The redevelopment program was a massive undertaking with an estimated cost of $2.72 billion. According to a 2021 document from the Office of the Mayor, the financing for the construction included the issuance of up to $1,000,000,000 in Salt Lake City, Airport Revenue Bonds, specifically Series 2021A and Series 2021B.
These 2021 Bonds were intended to finance the construction of the New SLC. The Salt Lake City Department of Airports stated that the debt service for these bonds is to be paid entirely from airport-generated revenues, such as landing fees, terminal rentals, and other fees paid by airlines. These revenues also include non-airline sources like parking, rental cars, food and beverage concessions, news and gift concessions, cargo revenues, and various types of rental income. Additionally, passenger facility charge (PFC) revenues, derived from a $4.50 charge imposed on passengers, are applied toward project costs and debt service.
Phased Construction Timeline
The redevelopment project followed a multi-phase timeline. Phase 1 of The New SLC opened in September 2020. Phase 2 was opened in October 2023, and Phase 3 opened in October 2024. The final phase, which includes the opening of 11 gates and six concessions, was scheduled for completion in October 2026.
Project Scope and Artistry
The scope of the redevelopment included several major components, such as the Central Tunnel and Concourse B Plaza. Phase 3 specifically featured the unveiling of the Central Tunnel, Concourse B Plaza, 12 concessions, and an initial five Delta Air Lines gates. Other art installations featured in the program include "Fisher The Peaks," a monumental sculpture by artist Gordon Huether inspired by the Wasatch Mountains, which pays tribute to Utah's five Native American tribes and the five elements of the natural world.
Long-term Agreements
The redevelopment was supported by long-term agreements with airlines. In 2014, the City entered into a 10-year Airline Use Agreement (AUA) that authorized the City to undertake the full Terminal Redevelopment Program. Delta Air Lines has since executed an extension of this agreement through June 30, 2034.
Economic and Operational Impact
The Salt Lake City Department of Airports has previously highlighted the economic benefits of the construction program, noting that the project serves as a boon to Utah's economy. The airport's expansion included the addition of new gates and concessions to accommodate arrivals and departures for major carriers, including Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines.
