Sacramento, CA — The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is moving forward to construct a new, state-of-the-art air traffic control tower at Sacramento International Airport (SMF), replacing the existing facility that has been in service since 1967. The new tower is expected to become fully operational around 2030.
“Modernizing Sacramento International Airport’s air traffic control tower is an important investment in safety, reliability, and the future of air travel in our region,” said U.S. Rep. Ami Bera, D-Calif., representing California’s 6th Congressional District. “This federal funding will help ensure air traffic controllers have the modern facilities and technology they need to safely manage growing air traffic demand while supporting jobs and economic growth throughout the Sacramento region.”
The FAA previously identified SMF as a priority site for tower replacement in 2016. SMF is one of eight airports nationwide selected for new tower construction as part of a broader FAA initiative to modernize aging air traffic infrastructure. The program is supported by funding from the $5 billion allocated to the FAA Air Traffic Organization through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.
“This is a significant step forward for the long-term safety, efficiency, and resilience of our airspace operations at Sacramento International Airport,” said Cindy Nichol, Director of Airports for Sacramento County. “We have been ready for this investment for many years, and we strongly support FAA’s commitment to replacing aging infrastructure with facilities that meet the demands of modern aviation.”
The current SMF control tower presents operational and accessibility limitations and aging facility systems. The replacement tower will be located on the Airport’s north campus, offering a taller structure, improved sightlines, and a modernized working environment designed to better support FAA air traffic controllers. The new site will also provide enhanced security by relocating critical operations away from public-facing airport areas.
While final construction timelines are still being finalized, current projections indicate that construction is expected to begin in summer 2027. The new tower will remain FAA-owned and FAA-operated upon completion.
