DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Northern California TRACON
11375 Douglas Rd
Mather, CA 95655

Issued: 05/07/2026 1321 (UTC) Effective: 05/11/2026 1200 (UTC)
Northern California TRACON Letter to Airmen: LTA-NCT-104

Subject: KSFO Departure Metering Frequency

Cancellation: 05/05/2028 1200 (UTC)

BACKGROUND

KSFO closed Runway 01R/19L on March 30, 2026 for a six-month period to complete runway repaving and adjacent taxiway improvements; the runway is scheduled to reopen on October 2nd.

During this period, SFO Tower will utilize Runways 28L and 28R for all arrivals and departures.

This configuration is commonly used during clear and/or windy conditions and is the preferred configuration during construction by both the airlines and ATC.

Runway 01L/19R will not be used for takeoffs or landings but may be utilized as a taxiway to help reduce ground congestion.

Departure Procedures

During peak traffic periods the airport may implement either “gate hold” or “departure metering” procedures.

Pilots should monitor the ATIS for instructions on which frequency to contact to receive their departure metering or gate hold release time. 

Target metering times will be issued in UTC on frequency 126.32. Pilots will be asked to remain on 126.32 for target metering updates. 

At the assigned target metering time, pilots should switch to the appropriate ramp or ATC frequency for push back. 


Gate hold release times will be issued dynamically on 124.25.


Francine Malabo
Air Traffic Manager, Northern California TRACON