Article June 24, 2026 3 mins read

Useful Information About San Diego International Airport (SAN)

San Diego International Airport is the only and primary airport that serves the city and the metropolitan area. It is located about 4 kilometres northwest of Downtown, and operates on a single runway. SAN provides non-stop flights to 77 cities across the United States and 11 international destinations. Alaska Airlines uses this airport as a hub, along with 19 other operating airlines. In 2016, the authorities opened a Car Rental at San Diego Airport on the north side of the airport, which houses 14 rental companies and passengers can access shuttles from the terminals.

san diego international airport rental car center

SAN Airport features two terminals, 1 and 2, with 50 gates in total. In 2025, phase 1 of the new Terminal 1 opened, consisting 19 gates, while the next phase with 11 more gates will open by 2028. On the other hand, Terminal 2 has two concourses with 31 gates in total (12 gates in East and 19 gates in the western concourse). Additionally, recently in June 2026, Terminal 1 is recognized as one of world’s most beautiful airport by Prix Versailles.

What’s New at San Diego Airport?

The new build features upgraded gates with plenty of charging ports, comfortable seating overlooking the runway, and updated flat screens.
The new Market Hall includes local favorites like Better Buzz Coffee, Cutwater bars, and Luna Grill, alongside elevated grab-and-go options and a rooftop-style outdoor dining area with city skyline views.
A centralized, 13-lane TSA Security checkpoint is opened to move passengers from curb to gate, reducing the overall San Diego Airport security wait times.
A new 5,200-space Parking Plaza features hundreds of EV chargers and a direct, pedestrian-friendly bridge to the terminal.
Breeze, Frontier, Sun Country, & Southwest, these carriers operate out of the new T1 facility.

Share this article:

Frequently Asked Questions

How many terminals does San Diego International Airport have?

San Diego International Airport has two passenger terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Together, they currently serve 50 gates, with additional gates planned as part of the ongoing Terminal 1 redevelopment.

How far is San Diego International Airport from Downtown San Diego?

The airport is located about 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) northwest of Downtown San Diego.

Which airlines operate from the new Terminal 1?

The new Terminal 1 is used by Southwest Airlines, Breeze Airways, Frontier Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines, featuring upgraded passenger facilities and a centralized security checkpoint.

Does San Diego International Airport have a rental car center?

Yes, SAN has a dedicated Rental Car Center located north of the airport, housing 14 rental car companies. Complimentary shuttle buses connect both terminals with the facility.

What are the latest upgrades at San Diego International Airport?

Recent improvements include the new Terminal 1, a centralized 13-lane TSA security checkpoint, an expanded Market Hall with local dining options, a 5,200-space Parking Plaza with EV chargers, and modern gate areas with additional seating, charging stations, and upgraded passenger amenities.

Does San Diego Airport have indoor smoking areas?

No, all San Diego Smoking areas are outdoor, keeping the premises a smoking-free zone.

About Howard Page

Howard Page is a U.S.-based travel journalist with more than 10 years of experience. He has worked on guidebooks, documentaries, and reports across more than 20 countries. He’s driven by discovering new places. When he encounters something outside the everyday, his curiosity kicks in, his focus sharpens, and his mind feels more alert than usual.

Follow View Profile

Table of Contents