San Antonio Airport Scales Back Free Parking for Disabled Veterans

San Antonio International Airport is adjusting one of its most veteran-friendly programs. Beginning November 1, the airport will reduce who qualifies for free parking, a benefit that’s been in place for years to honor disabled veterans and decorated service members.

The change comes after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) required the city to scale back the offering or risk losing future federal funding. While some veterans will still enjoy free or discounted parking, the airport says the program had become unsustainable — costing $54 million between 2019 and 2024.

Why This Matters for San Antonio

In Military City USA, where nearly one in eight residents has a direct military connection, this change strikes a deeply local chord. The airport’s veteran parking program was a point of pride — a small way the city gave back to those who served.

However, the program’s ballooning cost and an FAA audit put city leaders in a tough spot. San Antonio International Airport operates on self-generated revenue, not taxpayer funding. As the airport moves forward with a $2.5 billion, 20-year expansion plan — including a $1.7 billion Terminal C and a $115 million parking garage — maintaining fiscal balance has become essential.

By scaling back now, city officials say they’re ensuring long-term sustainability, protecting eligibility for federal grants that have totaled $270 million since 2020. Without those grants, key infrastructure improvements could stall, affecting everything from travel convenience to the city’s overall growth trajectory.

What’s Changing for Veterans

Until now, disabled veterans and recipients of several military honors — including the Bronze Star and Distinguished Service Cross — could park for free for up to 30 days in any airport garage or lot.

Starting November 1:

• Only Purple Heart recipients and former Prisoners of War will continue receiving full free parking.
• Other disabled veterans will still have free parking in surface lots and discounted rates in garages (50% off long-term, 25% off short-term).
• Surface lots cost $10/day, long-term garages $16/day, and short-term garages $29/day.

According to Airport Director Jesus Saenz, the decision followed months of coordination with the FAA. “We value our military personnel,” he said. “We wanted to ensure we could still offer complimentary parking in a fair and sustainable way.”

Veteran Reactions

Local veterans’ groups were briefed on the upcoming change by the city’s Military and Veteran Affairs Department, led by Juan Ayala. Initial reactions were mixed, but most agreed the revision was fair once the financial and regulatory pressures were explained.

Retired Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Steve Sullens, who has used the program for years, told the Express-News he understood the reasoning: “I still see where they are trying to do something for us and balance that.”

Real Estate and Economic Impact

While this update centers on airport policy, it ties directly into broader trends shaping San Antonio’s economy and housing market.

The airport expansion project is one of the city’s largest infrastructure investments in decades. Terminal C, new runways, and a high-capacity parking structure are designed to accommodate rising passenger demand as San Antonio grows. These projects not only enhance travel convenience but also create construction jobs, business opportunities, and long-term property value gains around the airport corridor and northeast side.

As infrastructure improves, surrounding neighborhoods — like Oak Park–Northwood, Terrell Hills, and Alamo Heights — often see increased buyer interest. Proximity to a major airport with modern amenities can make commuting and business travel easier for both locals and newcomers relocating to the area.

Tami Price, Realtor® with Real Broker, LLC, notes:

“Growth projects like the airport expansion ripple through the housing market. Improved access, new jobs, and increased visibility attract investment and raise buyer demand across nearby neighborhoods. It’s one of the clearest examples of how infrastructure and real estate move together in San Antonio.”

3 Key Takeaways

1. Policy Change Effective Nov. 1 – Only Purple Heart recipients and POWs will continue to receive full free airport parking.
2. FAA Compliance Matters – Scaling back the benefit ensures San Antonio stays eligible for future federal funding.
3. Growth Momentum Continues – The airport’s $2.5 billion expansion plan will strengthen travel access and local property values.

The Bottom Line

San Antonio’s airport parking update reflects the balance between honoring veterans and maintaining fiscal responsibility. While the reduced benefit may be disappointing for some, it preserves critical funding that supports the city’s long-term infrastructure and growth.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding how local changes — like airport expansions and FAA-driven policies — shape our city’s future is key to making informed real estate decisions.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, understanding how local growth affects home values is essential. Contact Tami Price, Realtor®, at 210-620-6681.

FAQs

1. When does the new airport parking policy take effect?
The change begins November 1, 2025.

2. Who still qualifies for full free parking at San Antonio International Airport?
Only Purple Heart recipients and former Prisoners of War.

3. What discounts remain for other disabled veterans?
They can park free in surface lots, receive 50% off long-term, and 25% off short-term garage rates.

4. Why did the FAA require this change?
An audit found the airport’s free-parking program violated federal grant rules and risked future funding if not scaled back.5. How does the airport expansion impact San Antonio homeowners?
Improved airport capacity and accessibility can increase nearby property demand, spur business investment, and support long-term real estate growth.