SDF Next Program

Let's Fly Into the Future Together

The SDF Next Program is a multi-year capital improvement effort that will see more than $1 billion in investment for the Jerry E. Abramson Terminal and airfield at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, preparing the airport for the future. Through 2024, nearly $350 million in projects have been completed since the Program launched five years ago in late 2019 with more than $260 million expected to be completed in the next two years. These modernization efforts are leading to a best-in-class transformation of Kentucky’s airport.

The exterior façade of the new Security Checkpoint Expansion at SDF, scheduled to open in early 2027.
The arrivals curb on the lower roadway will see a complete fresh as part of the SDF Next Program.
The interior of the new Security Checkpoint Expansion, which will increase screening capacity by more than 60% with up to 10 screening lanes.
The departures curb along the upper roadway will see the addition of a new, modern canopy and other exterior improvements.
The gate areas will experience a modernization with new gate podiums, improved lighting and added charging areas to provide a best-in-class experience for travelers.
The ticketing level will see improvements to the airlines’ check-in areas with new counters, lighting upgrades and a reconfiguration to expand the queueing space.
The exterior of the new Federal Inspection Services (FIS) facility that will allow SDF to offer international commercial passenger flights for the region.

Flying in or out soon?

We have a lot of changes happening, but your experience flying in or out of Louisville Muhammad Ali Airport will still be smooth. Here’s what you can expect.

Pre-Security

Current projects underway include:

  • Baggage Claim: Exterior Vestibule | Improvements to the exterior vestibule that leads to the pick-up area for taxis as well as rideshare services including Uber and Lyft. This vestibule is temporarily closed through late April. Passengers should follow signage to be directed through door no. 5.
  • New Security Checkpoint | Construction continues on the SDF Security Checkpoint Expansion with the new space scheduled to be operational by early 2027.

Post-Security

Current projects underway include:

  • Connector | The west side of the Connector, immediately past the security checkpoint going towards Concourses A and B is temporarily closed for mechanical improvements.  Work on this side should be completed by early March.
  • Gates A1 and B2 | Beginning Monday, February 2, Gates A1 and B2 will be temporarily closed until early Spring as they are fully renovated with new hold rooms and mechanical improvements.

Latest Updates

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport Celebrates Another Year of Success

The Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF) marked another year of success in 2025 including celebrating its third busiest year for passenger traffic following its top two record years in 2023 and 2024. Progress also continues for the SDF Next Program that has seen more than $364 million to date in completed projects with more than $565 million in additional investment expected between now and 2028.

SDF Investing More Than $1 Billion in Improvements

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport is undertaking a transformative $1 billion investment through its SDF Next Program, enhancing terminal and airfield facilities with projects like expanded security checkpoints, modernized baggage systems, and sustainable energy initiatives to accommodate growing passenger demand and future international travel.

Security Checkpoint Expansion Work Continues including Closure of Restrooms at Current Checkpoint

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport is expanding its security checkpoint as part of a $45 million project, which includes the permanent closure of nearby restrooms until the new checkpoint opens in 2026.

Security Checkpoint Expansion Now Underway at SDF

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has commenced its largest terminal upgrade in over 35 years, breaking ground on a $45 million security checkpoint expansion that will add a 30,000-square-foot facility with up to 10 screening lanes to accommodate growing passenger demand.

Geothermal Technology Now Live

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has activated the largest geothermal wellfield of any U.S. airport, a $120 million project expected to reduce carbon emissions by 80% and save $400,000 annually in utility costs.

New Restrooms in Baggage Claim Now Open

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has unveiled newly renovated baggage claim restrooms featuring modern, water-efficient designs as part of its $400 million SDF Next terminal improvement program.

SDF Unveils “Signature Louisville” Project and New Rental Car Access Tunnels

Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has reopened its East and West pedestrian tunnels featuring the “Signature Louisville” project, which showcases vibrant images of local landmarks and attractions to enhance travelers’ experience and highlight the city’s unique culture.

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Completed Projects

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