Sacramento International Airport (SMF): Complete 2026 Guide to Flights, Terminals, Parking & Upgrades

Sacramento International Airport (SMF) serves as the primary gateway to California’s capital region. Located just 10 miles northwest of downtown Sacramento, SMF has experienced strong growth, handling a record 13.9 million passengers in 2025 — a 2% increase over the previous year and part of over 20 consecutive months of passenger gains.

In 2026, SMF continues its major transformation under the SMForward program (a multi-billion-dollar modernization effort). Travelers can expect new infrastructure, expanded dining options, and improved navigation.

Terminals at SMF

Sacramento International Airport features two main terminals (A and B) connected by pedestrian bridges and an underground people-mover train.

  • Terminal A: Primarily serves American Airlines, Delta, and United.

  • Terminal B: Home to Southwest Airlines (the dominant carrier), Alaska Airlines, and several international carriers.

Major 2026 upgrades include:

  • A new elevated pedestrian walkway connecting Terminal B to Concourse B (expected summer 2026) with moving walkways, escalators, elevators, and public art.

  • A new 6-level parking garage near Terminal B with approximately 5,500 spaces (opening late 2026).

  • Early construction on Concourse B expansion to add gates and capacity.

  • Ongoing improvements to baggage handling and new dining/retail options.

Airlines and Nonstop Destinations

SMF offers nonstop service to 51 destinations with 11–12 airlines. Southwest Airlines handles over half of all passengers, with strong service from Delta, United, Alaska, American, Frontier, JetBlue, Volaris, and others.

Popular nonstop routes include:

  • California cities: Los Angeles (LAX), San Diego (SAN), San Francisco (SFO), Burbank, Ontario

  • Western U.S.: Las Vegas, Seattle, Portland, Denver

  • Hawaii: Honolulu and others (seasonal/expanding)

  • Mexico: Multiple cities via Volaris and others

  • East Coast: Seasonal and new routes to Orlando, Boston, New York (JFK), Miami, etc.

Peak days see over 200 daily departures.

Parking at SMF (2026 Rates)

Parking remains more affordable than many California airports:

  • Garage: $21 per day max

  • Daily Lot: $14 per day max

  • Economy Lots (East, South): $12 per day max

Rates are $2 per 30 minutes (pro-rated) until the daily maximum. A major new garage is opening in late 2026 to ease congestion.

Getting To & From SMF

  • Rideshare (Uber/Lyft): Designated pickup zones outside both terminals.

  • Rental Cars: On-site counters and consolidated rental car center.

  • Public Transit: Sacramento Regional Transit (SacRT) buses and light rail connections.

  • Taxi/Shuttle: Available curbside.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.

Dining and Shopping

SMF highlights Sacramento’s Farm-to-Fork reputation with local favorites alongside national chains. New concessions opened in 2025–2026, including more gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options (e.g., West Coast Sourdough, Sidewalk Juice). Shopping includes local gifts at DOCO Market, souvenirs, and travel essentials.

Tips for Traveling Through SMF

  • Arrive 2–2.5 hours before domestic flights due to growth and construction.

  • Check real-time parking availability and construction updates on the official site.

  • Take advantage of new walkways and expanded spaces to reduce walking time.

  • Download the airport app or visit flysmf.gov for live flight status, maps, and dining guides.

Whether you’re flying for business, heading to the mountains, wine country, or beyond, Sacramento International Airport (SMF) provides a convenient, improving experience with strong connectivity across North America and growing international options.