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
Ambler Airport (ABL) in Alaska, USA, functions as a very small, remote regional airport, serving the Native Alaskan village of Ambler and its surrounding isolated communities. It is primarily a lifeline airport for essential services, cargo, and occasional passenger flights, connecting to larger hubs like Kotzebue, with services often provided by Easy Fly Express. Its terminal facilities are extremely rudimentary, often consisting of a single, basic building or a simple shelter that acts as a modest waiting area and a point for cargo handling. The layout is minimalist, with direct access from a small gravel landing strip to the boarding area, often a designated spot on the tarmac. There are no complex multi-terminal configurations or extensive ground facilities; all operations are conducted within this singular, basic setup. Walking times are negligible, typically mere seconds from arrival to aircraft, emphasizing its functional role in providing essential access to remote regions.\n\nSecurity procedures at ABL are minimal, consistent with its classification as a small, remote regional airfield. Formal TSA security checkpoints are typically not present for the limited passenger traffic. Instead, security protocols focus on general aviation safety guidelines and direct coordination with local air carriers or charter operators like Easy Fly Express. There are no significant wait times for any checks. As a domestic airfield, there are no immigration or customs facilities on site; these functions would be handled at larger international airports for any international travel. Passengers should expect a highly informal and direct process, reflecting the very low volume of air traffic and the challenging operational environment of rural Alaska.\n\nAmenities at Ambler Airport are exceptionally sparse. Passengers should not expect any airline lounges, dedicated dining facilities, or retail shops. Any available provisions would be extremely limited, possibly from a very basic local store in the village, and travelers are strongly advised to bring all necessary supplies, including food, water, and personal items. Seating in the waiting area is basic and often outdoors, and very limited. Accessibility features are rudimentary, primarily consisting of ground-level access. Travelers requiring assistance must coordinate thoroughly in advance with their air operator or local contacts. Family facilities, such as play areas or nursing rooms, are entirely absent. The airport's primary purpose is essential logistical support and access for remote communities, not passenger comfort or convenience.
๐ Connection Tips
Connections via OTZ; operations can be weather and daylight dependent.
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