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San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has postponed its $1bn Terminal 3 West project as a result of reduced passenger numbers and flight operations caused by the Covid-19 crisis.

Originally scheduled to commence this June, the physical construction work will be postponed for a minimum of six months.

The project involves the refurbishment of the existing 400,000ft² western half of Terminal 3, where United Airlines operates.

It comprises a seismic retrofit, new architectural finishes, and new passenger services. 

The Terminal 3 West project is also expected to add 190,000ft² of space for expanded food, beverage, and retail concessions.

According to SFO, aircraft gates will also be rearranged to accommodate international flights, connected to the customs facility through a new elevated secure connector.

The airport claims to have completed nearly 75% of the design and enabling activities, including the relocation of utilities and tenants.

Turner Construction Company is developing the project, which was designed by Gensler / TEF joint venture.

Management support services for the project are offered by PGH Wong Engineering, CPM Associates, MCK Americas and Environmental & Construction Solutions.

The Terminal 3 West project was initially scheduled to be completed by 2023. SFO noted that the postponement of the project will not affect where airlines operate at the airport.

In November 2015, SFO launched a refurbished Terminal 3 East concourse, which comprised three aircraft gates, a consolidated central security checkpoint, and a new United Club location.

Prior to that, in January 2014, the airport reopened the renovated Boarding Area E with ten gates for United Airlines.