Comprehensive Guide to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)'s Main Terminal

Comprehensive Guide to Sacramento International Airport (SMF)'s Main Terminal

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is undergoing a significant $1.3 billion modernization and expansion initiative, known as "SMForward," aimed at accommodating projected growth in passenger demand and improving infrastructure. The programme focuses on infrastructure modernization, including a new pedestrian walkway, concourse expansions, a large new parking garage, and enhanced ground transportation.

Although the programme does not directly tie the announcement of new international routes, it creates the capacity and facilities necessary to accommodate future international service growth. Historically, Sacramento’s long-haul international service has been limited, with some seasonal and intermittent flights to destinations like Mexico and Hawaii. The absence of a customs and immigration facility suitable for a wide range of international arrivals has been a limiting factor. If the expansion addresses this gap, future direct service to international destinations becomes more feasible.

Potential candidates for new service, based on market demand, airline interest, and Sacramento’s diaspora and business connections, could include Mexico, Canada, Central America, Transatlantic, and Asia-Pacific destinations. These possibilities, however, remain speculative and contingent on airline decisions.

The Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Airport-Natomas, the Four Points by Sheraton Sacramento Airport, and the Hilton Garden Inn Sacramento Airport Natomas are all located on Advantage Way, Sacramento, CA 95834. The Hilton Garden Inn is located 10 minutes from SMF via a free 24-hour shuttle, while the proximity of the Four Points by Sheraton Sacramento Airport to the airport is not specified. The Hampton Inn & Suites Sacramento-Airport-Natomas offers a complimentary hot breakfast, fitness center, outdoor pool, free parking, and a free airport shuttle. The Four Points by Sheraton Sacramento Airport features an outdoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, a complimentary airport shuttle, and an on-site restaurant.

SMF has 2 Escape Lounges located at Concourse A, near gate A10, and Concourse B, immediately after the security checkpoint on the left side. The airport is in the middle of a 20-year expansion plan that may allow destinations such as Tokyo, London, and Frankfurt to be added to the list in the near future. In 2023, SMF served 13 million passengers, over 50% of whom flew with Southwest Airlines. The airport is equipped with TSA PreCheck lanes, Global Entry kiosks, and Mobile Passport Control lines.

Sources: [1] Sacramento International Airport. (n.d.). SMForward. Retrieved from https://www.sacairport.org/smforward [2] Sacramento Business Journal. (2021, July 15). Sacramento International Airport’s $1.3 billion modernization plan: What it means for airlines, passengers. Retrieved from https://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/news/2021/07/15/sacramento-international-airport-smf-modernization.html [3] KCRA. (2021, July 15). Sacramento International Airport's $1.3 billion modernization plan to bring new flights, restaurants. Retrieved from https://www.kcra.com/news/sacramento-international-airports-1-3-billion-modernization-plan-to-bring-new-flights-restaurants/

1. The expansion of Sacramento International Airport could pave the way for new travel destinations, as it creates the necessary infrastructure for future international service growth.
2. Potential destinations for new international routes from Sacramento's airport could include Mexico, Canada, Central America, Transatlantic, and Asia-Pacific, depending on airline decisions and market demand.
3. The environment at Sacramento International Airport is improving with a 20-year expansion plan, which may include the addition of destinations like Tokyo, London, and Frankfurt in the near future.
4. For travelers staying near the airport, there are several options for accommodations, such as the Hampton Inn & Suites, Four Points by Sheraton, and Hilton Garden Inn, all located in Sacramento, California, and offering amenities like free shuttle services, fitness centers, and outdoor pools.

Read also: