SFO Celebrates Grand Opening of Harvey Milk Terminal 1, Setting New Standards in Airport Innovation and Inclusivity

SFO Celebrates Grand Opening of Harvey Milk Terminal 1, Setting New Standards in Airport Innovation and Inclusivity

New ticket counters, security checkpoint, post-security connector to all terminals

(IN SHORT) San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has unveiled the final phase of Harvey Milk Terminal 1, named after the pioneering LGBTQ+ leader. This milestone introduces advanced features like Automated Bag Drop and Screening Lanes, new gates, and enhanced dining options. Recognized for its sustainability and passenger-centric design, the terminal aims to reflect San Francisco’s values of inclusivity and innovation.

(PRESS RELEASE) San Francisco, CA, 2024-Jun-18 — /Travel PR News/ — San Francisco International Airport (SFO) proudly unveiled the final phase of its groundbreaking Harvey Milk Terminal 1, marking a significant milestone in airport innovation and LGBTQ+ representation. Named after Harvey Milk, the first openly gay elected official in California, the terminal stands as a symbol of inclusivity and progress.

Mayor London Breed expressed pride in launching this terminal during Pride Month, highlighting its role as a welcoming hub that embodies San Francisco’s values. She commended SFO for creating a facility that reflects the city’s ideals and serves as a testament to Harvey Milk’s legacy.

According to Airport Director Ivar C. Satero, Harvey Milk Terminal 1 sets a new standard in airport design and functionality. The terminal features state-of-the-art amenities such as Automated Bag Drop technology, Automated Screening Lanes, and enhanced security measures, enhancing the passenger experience.

Key features of the final phase include a new north check-in lobby shared by Alaska and Delta Airlines, two additional gates (B3 and C1), and a connecting walkway linking all terminals post-security. The terminal also boasts new dining options like Green Apple Books and Poke to the Max, with upcoming openings including the LEGO Store and Perry’s restaurant.

Recognized for its architectural excellence and sustainable practices, Harvey Milk Terminal 1 has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious LEED Platinum certification and WELL certification for promoting human health and well-being. These achievements underscore SFO’s commitment to environmental stewardship and passenger comfort.

The completion of Harvey Milk Terminal 1 represents a significant achievement for SFO and reinforces its position as a leader in airport innovation and LGBTQ+ inclusivity.

This final phase of Harvey Milk Terminal 1 features the following:

  • A new north check-in lobby, which will be occupied by Alaska and Delta Airlines, featuring an innovative new Automated Bag Drop technology that makes checking bags easier than ever
  • A new mezzanine-level security checkpoint, featuring Automated Screening Lanes, that provides seamless access from the Terminal 1 AirTrain station
  • Two new aircraft gates and boarding areas; Gates B3 and C1
  • A connecting walkway linking all SFO terminals post-security
  • New automated exit lanes, a first at SFO, providing greater security
  • Five additional baggage claim carousels, with an optional sixth if needed
  • A new common-use lounge, the Club at SFO, opening June 25th
  • A new SFO Museum “Photo Alley” gallery
  • Four new concessions:
    • Green Apple Books: bookstore, news, snacks
    • 7×7: newsstand, books, snacks
    • Poke to the Max: casual Hawaiian food
    • Pronto!: locally-sourced grab-and-go food
  • Future shopping and dining openings include:
    • Mac Store: fragrances, skincare, cosmetics; opening July 2024
    • The Bay Collection “Museum Store”; opening fourth quarter 2024
    • The LEGO Store; opening fourth quarter 2024
    • Perry’s: sit-down restaurant; opening fourth quarter 2024
    • SF Eats Food Hall: five-concession food court; opening fourth quarter 2024
    • Taste of the City: casual sit-down restaurant; opening first quarter 2025
    • Balboa Café: sit-down restaurant; opening first quarter 2025

Harvey Milk Terminal 1 has earned the following awards and certifications:

2021

  • Fast Company Most Innovative Companies; honors Harvey Milk Terminal 1 for its design
  • Center for Active Design Fitwel “Best in Building Health” award

2022

  • First airport terminal in the world to achieve FitWel certification, a building rating system that provides guidelines on how to design and operate healthier buildings
  • First airport terminal in the world to earn “Platinum” certification from the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program developed by the U.S. Green Building Council
  • American Institute of Architects, San Francisco (AIASF) “People’s Choice Award”
  • Engineering News Record (ENR) “Best Project” award, Airport/Transit category
  • American Institute of Architects, California “Climate Action Award”
  • First airport terminal in the world to earn full WELL certification, for measuring, certifying, and monitoring building features that impact human health and well-being

2023

  • International Partnering Institute “Partnered Project of the Year”

About San Francisco International Airport 

SFO is committed to providing an extraordinary airport experience, with seamless access, thoughtful amenities, sustainable design and inspiring artwork and exhibits.

For up-to-the-minute departure and arrival information, airport maps and details on shopping, dining, cultural exhibitions, ground transportation and more, visit www.flysfo.com. Follow us on x.com/flysfo and facebook.com/flysfo.

Media Contact:

Doug Yakel
Public Information Officer
External Affairs Office
Tel: 650.821.4000

Source: San Francisco International Airport

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