A runway construction project at San Francisco International Airport is expected to finish two days ahead of schedule, offering relief to passengers affected by months of delays.
Runway 1 Right has been closed since March 30 while crews repave its surface and carry out improvements to nearby taxiways, lighting and markings. The work had originally been due to continue until October 2, but the airport now expects the runway to be completed by September 30.
The closure has forced SFO to handle arrivals and departures mainly through Runways 28 Left and 28 Right, reducing the airport’s operating capacity during busy periods. The Federal Aviation Administration has also imposed restrictions on parallel landings, adding to the pressure on air traffic.
San Francisco International Airport had initially warned that fewer than 15% of flights could be delayed as a result of the construction, with most delays expected during peak operating hours. Local reporting has since found that disruption has been considerably greater, with around 40% of flights delayed at points this year.
The project is being carried out by Granite Construction under a contract awarded in May 2025. The overall cost is now estimated at about $215 million, including federal funding from the FAA.
