San Diego International Airport Terminal Compendium: Essential Guide for [SAN] Terminals
San Diego International Airport (SAN) Expansion Project: Modernizing and Increasing Capacity
San Diego International Airport (SAN) is undergoing a significant expansion project, designed to modernize and increase the airport's capacity. The project is divided into two phases, with the first phase set to open in September 2025.
Expansion Overview
The first phase of the expansion includes the construction of a new 19-gate facility, a 7,500-space parking structure, dual-level arrivals/departures roadways, and expanded taxiways. The parking structure is expected to be partially operational before the terminal opens, with 5,200 spots available. The second phase, planned for completion by 2028, will add 11 more gates to the new Terminal 1, replacing the original structure.
Infrastructure and Features
The new Terminal 1 will have a total of 30 gates once both phases are completed. The new parking facility will include electric vehicle charging stations for 10% of its spots. An elevated departures highway and a dedicated arrivals lane are also part of the plan.
Seismic Resilience
The terminal's design takes into account seismic hazards such as liquefaction and fault rupture, utilizing advanced techniques like deep foundation systems to ensure structural resilience.
Other Airport Features
SAN offers a variety of amenities for travellers. The long-term parking lot is located at the far east end of the airport on Harbor Drive and Winship Lane, with daily parking rates offered at $20 driving-up or $17 prepaid. TSA PreCheck security lanes are available at every security checkpoint of SAN.
For passengers with disabilities, accessible parking is available in all airport-owned parking lots, and shuttle buses that serve the long-term parking lot are also wheelchair accessible. SAN has 7 pet relief areas throughout the airport.
SAN has 2 terminals, with Terminal 2 being larger and more modern. Terminal 2 has 2 security checkpoints that are conveniently positioned for either the east or west side concourses.
There are several hotels within easy reach of San Diego International Airport. These include the Hilton San Diego Airport, offering waterfront views, a complimentary airport shuttle, a whirlpool spa, and a sauna. The Sheraton San Diego Hotel and Marina is another stellar option, offering stunning views of the harbor and downtown San Diego.
SAN has 4 lounges located in Terminal 2, and CLEAR was introduced to the airport in April 2022. SAN has 16 electric vehicle charging points at the Terminal 2 parking plaza.
Passengers will find a variety of dining options at SAN, with 40 restaurants, bars, and cafes ranging from Starbucks to Panda Express. Charging points are available throughout the airport and at the departure gates.
For those who need to stay near the airport but still want a great hotel experience, the Homewood Suites By Hilton San Diego is a great option, offering a fully-equipped kitchen, a full refrigerator, and complimentary breakfast each morning.
SAN provides various ground transportation options, including buses, rental cars, ride-shares, and shuttles. The Metropolitan Transit System's bus route 992 operates between SAN and downtown San Diego, departing every 15 minutes on weekdays and every 30 minutes on weekends and public holidays. Passengers can connect to Amtrak and Coaster services via Amtrak's Santa Fe Depot train station, located in downtown San Diego, by taking bus route 992 from the airport.
For those driving, ATMs are located throughout the airport, inside and outside of the secure areas. Customer Service phone number for SAN is 619-400-2404. SAN has a lost and found office located in Terminal 2 west on the lower level.
[1] San Diego International Airport Expansion
[2] Terminal 1 Expansion Project
[3] San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Expansion
[1] The San Diego International Airport expansion project includes the revamp of Terminal 1, set to modernize and increase its capacity.[2] The first phase of the Terminal 1 expansion will consist of a new 19-gate facility, a 7,500-space parking structure, and improved roadways, with the aim of enhancing travel efficiency.[3] Sports enthusiasts will rejoice in the addition of 11 more gates in the second phase of the Terminal 1 expansion in 2028, providing more opportunities for sports-analysis and ticket sales.[4] Foodies will appreciate the variety of dining options that will become available at SAN, as the expansion project offers more space for restaurants, bars, and cafes, bringing a lifestyle boost to travelers.
