Ready to take a trip? Since 1967, San Diego International Airport has been our ticket out of the city — not that we want to leave for long. SAN has gone through some changes recently, so if you haven’t traveled in a while, be prepared for a few new things as you leave on that jet plane.
🏗️ Design
Recently, the new Terminal 1 project broke ground — which will add runways, improve terminal areas + connect Terminal 1 + Terminal 2. But the project won’t be complete until 2027, so expect some detours + delays.
Terminal 2 is also turning heads. Keep your eyes peeled for the new art. The “Make Yourself At Home” exhibit can be found pre-and-post security while the “Feeling Good Nonstop” mural can be found outside of Gate 26.
Nonstop fun in Terminal 2 | Photo + artwork by Sarah Tate Ehrich
🧳 Travel Routes
If you think of travel nonstop you should fly nonstop. SAN has introduced flights to Maui, Norfolk, Bozeman + New York. Meanwhile, the airport resumed international flights to Japan, London, and many parts of Canada. If you’re planning a trip in 2022, SAN will offer nonstop flights to Germany starting in March.
Perhaps the biggest quality of life update is found outside of the airport. SAN introduced the San Diego Flyer, a free, daily electric shuttle between Old Town and the airport — and we’re thankful to have options to reduce drop-off traffic.
🧼 Health + Safety
We can’t ignore the obvious— “have a safe flight” has taken on new meaning since 2020. Some people postponed plans last year, but air travel is returning to pre-pandemic levels. This year, 2.3 million people took flights the day before Thanksgiving — more than doubling 2020’s number. If you’re traveling for the holidays, be prepared for crowds + strengthened protocols.
- Wear a mask covering your nose + mouth — required until at least March 2022.
- Plan COVID testing you’re flying internationally. You must provide a negative test within 24-hours of returning to SAN.
- Social distancing is still enforced in terminals. Keep six-feet — or, in true San Diego style, one surfboard — apart from others.