โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
San Diego International Airport operates through two main terminals that are currently undergoing significant modernization and expansion as part of a comprehensive redevelopment program. Terminal 1 primarily serves Southwest Airlines and select other carriers with domestic operations, while Terminal 2 accommodates Alaska Airlines' West Coast hub operations along with major carriers including American, Delta, United, and international airlines serving routes to Mexico, Canada, and seasonal European destinations.
Terminal 1 features a linear concourse design with gates arranged for efficient Southwest operations, emphasizing quick turnarounds and point-to-point service typical of the airline's business model. Terminal 2 offers a more extensive layout serving Alaska Airlines' hub operations and other carriers, with gates distributed across multiple concourse areas connected by moving walkways and shuttle services. Inter-terminal connections require exiting the secure area and taking shuttle buses or walking via the landside connector, adding 15-25 minutes to transfer times.
Security checkpoints are located in each terminal with TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes available in both facilities. Wait times vary by terminal and time of day, typically ranging from 15-25 minutes during off-peak periods to 45-75 minutes during peak morning departure banks and summer travel season when San Diego experiences high leisure travel volume. The airport's single runway operation can create departure delays during peak periods, affecting overall processing times.
International operations are distributed between both terminals with customs and immigration facilities including Global Entry kiosks and standard CBP processing areas. San Diego serves as an important gateway to Mexico, particularly Baja California, with strong leisure and business connections. The airport also handles seasonal service to Canada and Europe, primarily during peak travel seasons when demand supports expanded international connectivity.
San Diego's terminals reflect the city's laid-back coastal culture with amenities including restaurants featuring California cuisine, craft beer from local San Diego breweries, and fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, retail shops highlighting surf and beach culture, San Diego sports teams, and California products, and multiple airline lounges including Alaska Airlines Board Room and American Admirals Club. The airport emphasizes its connection to San Diego's perfect weather and outdoor lifestyle with design elements throughout the terminals, while the ongoing modernization project will significantly expand capacity and improve passenger amenities including new restaurants, shops, and transportation connections including the recently opened trolley extension providing direct rail service to downtown San Diego.
๐ Connection Tips
Interโterminal transfers via walkway/bus.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Apalachicola Regional Airport (AAF) in Florida, USA, functions as a small, regional airport primarily serving general aviation and a limited number of charter flights. Its terminal facilities are notably compact, designed for efficiency and ease of use rather than extensive amenities. The layout typically involves a single building housing a small waiting area, a check-in counter (often unstaffed for non-commercial flights), and direct access to the tarmac. Given its scale, there are no separate terminals or complex inter-terminal connections. Passengers experience minimal walking distances, usually a few steps from the parking lot to the aircraft, making for an exceptionally quick and straightforward pre-flight experience.\n\nSecurity procedures at AAF are highly streamlined, reflecting its general aviation focus. Formal TSA security checkpoints are not typically in place for the majority of operations, though specific charter flights might arrange for ad-hoc screening. For general aviation, security primarily involves adherence to FAA regulations and airport authority guidelines, with a focus on general aviation safety protocols. Wait times for any necessary checks would be minimal, if not non-existent. As a domestic airport, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site, as these processes are handled at larger international ports of entry. Travelers should expect a relaxed, small-town airport atmosphere.\n\nAmenities at Apalachicola Regional Airport are very limited. There are no airline lounges, and dining options are generally non-existent beyond perhaps a vending machine. Retail facilities are absent. Passengers should not expect concessions and are advised to arrive with any necessary snacks, drinks, or personal items. Accessibility features are basic, with ground-level access throughout the small terminal building. Specialized assistance for passengers with reduced mobility may require prior arrangement with a charter operator or fixed-base operator (FBO). Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are not provided. The airport's primary function is to support flight operations, with passenger comforts being secondary to its operational role.
๐ Connection Tips
Plan ground transfers; nearest commercial airports are ECP and TLH.
โ Back to San Diego International Airport