SAN Terminal 1 – San Diego International Airport
The Terminal 1 is the brand new terminal at San Diego Airport, officially opened on 23, September 2025. A significant terminal larger than the older facilities along with new gates, modern amenities and upgraded transportation access. The map of Terminal 1 San Diego Airport represents modern features and designs which are committed to sustainability and technology. San Diego Terminal 1 parking is a new parking feature that offers standard and the most convenient parking options. The next level of Terminal 1 renovations, Phase 1B which is slated to commence by 2026.
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Overview
The recently renovated San Diego Terminal 1 is a suitable reference point for travelers in San Diego Airport. The San Diego Airport Terminal 1 map can help travelers find automated check-in counters, larger concourses, and updated 13-lane security checkpoints.Travelers can enjoy a wide range of SAN Airport Terminal 1 food options, including local favorites, cafés, and full-service restaurants. Terminal 1 has significantly improved seating areas, retail areas, and digital flight information displays to create an increasingly viable travel experience in San Diego that balances comfort, technology, and charming travel to San Diego.
| Category | Details |
| Operated Airlines | Frontier Airlines, Breeze Airways, JetBlue Airlines, SouthWest Airlines, Sun Country Airlines |
| Concourses Layout | Single Concourse with two distinct wings – 19 Gates C Zone (SouthWest Airlines): 5-16 gatesE Zone (Rest of the Airlines): approx 7 gates |
| Arrival Level | Ground Floor : Baggage Claim, Touchscreen Directories, Visitors Informations, Restrooms, Pet Relief Area, Dining and Retails, Accessibilities, Art Installations, Ground Transportation |
| Departure Level | Third Floor : Check-ins Counter, Security Checkpoint, Concourse Departments, Luminous Wave Wall, Food and Retail, Lounges, Art and Decor, Flight Screen Display, Restrooms, Pet Relief Area, Charging Stations, Accessibilities |
| Lounges Available | Lounges will open once the current redevelopment wraps up. |
| Priority Pass | No Priority Pass Access |
| Dining and Food Hub | Ambrogio 15, Better Buzz Coffee, Cutwater Restaurant and Bar, JT Bros Handcrafted Sandwiches, Lofty Coffee, Luna Grill, Market Hall, McDonald’s, Novocientos Grados, Parfait Paris, SIP Wine and Beer, The Taco Stand |
| Shopping hub | SAN Supply Co., The Arts District Market, Liberty Station Gifts, No Boundaries, Univision Travel Store, 7-Eleven |
| Parking | Terminal 1 Parking Plaza Off-site Parking |
| Facilities and amenities | Baggage Claim, Touchscreen Directories, Visitors Informations, Restrooms, Pet Relief Area, Dining and Retails, Accessibilities, Art Installations, Ground Transportation, Check-ins Counter, Security Checkpoint, Concourse Departments, Luminous Wave Wall, Lounges, Art and Decor, Flight Screen Display, Charging Stations, Nursing Rooms |
What’s New in the San Diego Terminal 1?
San Diego International Airport (SAN) opened its initial Phase of the brand-new Terminal 1 in September 2025, as part of a $3.8 billion renovation of the 58-year-old facility. The new terminal replaces an outdated, cramped building with a larger, modern, environmentally-friendly terminal focused on comforting the passenger experience.
- Expanded gates: This San Diego terminal 1 opened with 19 brand new gates, desperately needed capacity. The completed project will have a total of 30 gates by 2028.
- Larger footprint: Phase 1A is approximately one million square feet – compared to approximately 300,000 square feet of the old terminal, this is a significant increase.
- Spacious design: The terminal provides a bright and airy, open, calming effect for travelers. The “Luminous Wave” glass facade provides natural light to ticketing and baggage claim areas.
- Faster security and check-in: A new 13-lane security checkpoint and over 60 self-service kiosks dramatically expedite processing times.
- Baggage claim upgrades: The new baggage claim area is larger and more efficient, featuring seven carousels which can accommodate 4,000 bags per hour. A secure exit prevents passengers from getting back into the terminal.
- Modern ground transportation: A new elevated, three-lane entrance roadway will help relieve congestion along North Harbor Drive. Departures and arrivals are on different levels to alleviate curbside congestion. A large multi-level at San Diego Terminal 1 parking plaza that provides space for over 2,800 vehicles and ample EV charging stations opened for use in 2024.
Airlines Operating by San Diego International Airport Terminal 1
Terminal 1 San Diego is home to some of the major domestic airlines in the U.S. This includes Southwest, Frontier, Spirit, Sun Country, Breeze, and JetBlue. Together, the airlines serve a wide array of destinations across the country from Terminal 1 San Diego Airport, such as Tampa, Milwaukee, Colorado Springs, Columbus, and San José Del Cabo. The terminal layout promotes convenience and efficiency, featuring 19 gates with an additional 11 gates to be added, totaling 30 by 2028. Terminal 1 San Diego also offers updated amenities and operations, ensuring an easy and comfortable airport experience that caters to traveling needs.
| Domestic | Regional |
| Breeze Airways | Breeze Airways |
| Frontier Airlines | Sun Country Airlines |
| JetBlue Airlines | |
| Southwest Airlines | |
| Sun Country Airlines |
Destinations from San Diego Terminal 1
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 allows travelers to reach many domestic destinations and leisure spots in the United States. Terminal 1 San Diego is designed for both comfort and efficiency and supports numerous flights to major metropolitan areas, leisure destinations, and regional airports, with exceptional connectivity, enhanced passenger friendly facilities, and a modern travel experience for both business and leisure travelers.
Domestic Destinations: Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Hawaii, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Virginia
San Diego Terminal 1 Map and Layout
Travelers need to understand the San Diego Terminal 1 map, to avoid confusion navigating the busy environment of the San Diego Int’l Airport & Terminal 1 East. The map of Terminal 1 San Diego airport clearly shows you the layout of check-in counters, security checkpoints, gates, food courts, lounges, and baggage claim areas. Once you have reviewed the San Diego Airport Terminal 1 map, you will be prepared to ease the travel process. Overall, knowing more about the airport layout will reduce travel anxiety, streamline transfers, save time, and make it easier to move between sections of the terminal. This is especially helpful for first-time travelers and those with connections.
| Layout | Features |
| Level 1 | Arrival Floor : Baggage Claim, Touchscreen Directories, Visitors Informations, Restrooms, Pet Relief Area, Dining and Retails, Accessibilities, Art Installations, Ground Transportation |
| Level 2 | Concourses and Gates: Food and Retail |
| Level 3 | Departure Floor : Check-ins Counter, Security Checkpoint, Concourse Departments, Luminous Wave Wall, Food and Retail, Lounges, Art and Decor, Flight Screen Display, Restrooms, Pet Relief Area, Charging Stations, Accessibilities |
| Concourses and Gates | Single Concourse with two distinct wings – 19 Gates C Zone (SouthWest Airlines): 5-16 gatesE Zone (Rest of the Airlines): approx 7 gates |
| Connected Terminal | Terminal 2 – Pedestrian WalkwaysInter-terminal Shuttle service |
With continued construction and completed enhancements, San Diego Airport Terminal 1 is developing into a contemporary travel facility. Guided by the SAN Airport Terminal 1 map passengers can navigate a larger gate configuration, enhanced facilities and improved passenger amenities designed for seamless, connected, and comfortable travel through the airport.
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 Arrival and Departure
SAN Airport Terminal 1 has favorable arrivals and departures, with improved check-in areas, upgraded security lanes, and enhanced directional signs. The terminal’s layout allows for efficient flow from curbside to gate, with continuous real-time flight information, directions, and baggage claim assistance. With more gates and improved layout and amenities, San Diego Terminal 1 provides greater convenience and reduced congestion to create a positive travel experience, for both domestic arrivals and departures, with significantly improved passenger-focused terminal infrastructure.
| Arrival Level | Departure Level |
| The arrival level at Terminal 1 San Diego offers a spacious, well-signposted layout that ensures passengers can quickly find baggage claim areas, ground transportation, and exits, making navigating through the terminal stress-free and straightforward. Amenities on the arrival level include comfortable seating, charging stations, information kiosks, and food options, allowing travelers to rest, refresh, and access essential services immediately after landing. Domestic carriers primarily use this level for passenger drop-off and arrivals, ensuring efficient handling of frequent flights, streamlined customs, and baggage services for smooth transitions from air to ground. Though mainly domestic, Terminal 1 San Diego also accommodates certain international arrivals with immigration and customs support, making the facility adaptable for cross-border travelers and maintaining consistent service quality. | The departure level is designed for ease of check-in, featuring wide counters, self-service kiosks, and clear signage to guide passengers from entry to security, ensuring an efficient start to the journey. Amenities on the departure level include lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and coffee shops, providing travelers with comfort, refreshments, and entertainment while waiting for flights. Domestic carriers dominate departures at Terminal 1 San Diego Airport, offering frequent and well-organized services, fast-track security, and streamlined boarding processes for travelers heading to major U.S. destinations. While primarily serving domestic flights, the departure level also supports some international operations with designated gates and pre-clearance options, accommodating a range of passenger needs and maintaining airport efficiency. |
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 Parking Lots
Parking on the site of the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport (SAN) is the Terminal 1 Parking Plaza. There are other off-site lots as well that offer shuttle service to the airport.
Terminal 1 Parking Plaza
- The new San Diego parking Terminal 1 garage is multi-level and is located just across the street from the terminal, replacing the old surface lot. Directly across the street from the new Terminal 1. With more than 5,200 spaces capacities.
- A parking guidance system with colored lights that directs drivers to open spaces; along with a variety of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations.
- 10 minutes of free parking: See the parking area designated for quick passenger drop-offs and pickups free of charge.
- Rates: While official rates may vary, generally the daily max for on-site parking at SAN is around $36; but again it is ideal to check the airport website for the most accurate pricing.
Off-site Parking Options
- Numerous companies operate parking lots close to the airport, with cheaper prices, and provide shuttle service to each terminal.
- Aladdin Airport Parking: An off-airport option that is close and features valet, self-parking and shuttle service.
- San Diego Airport Parking: Offers valet and shuttle services and may provide lower rates than parking options available on the airport property.
- Other options: There are also many lots that offer shuttle service to the airport, such as Wally Park and Park, Shuttle & Fly that operate in close proximity to the airport.
How to Reach SAN Airport Terminal 1?
There are several ways for ground transportation to access the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport (SAN). Cars, taxis, rideshare, and public transit are all options. The new Terminal will have a new entrance and a new road system to make it work better for traffic. Here are the options listed again:
By Car
- A new elevated roadway will lead directly into the departure level (third floor) of Terminal 1. If you are dropping off someone use the upper level roadway to access the check in area. Drive down to the lower level arrivals area to pick-up passengers. A Cell Phone Lot is located nearby for drivers waiting to pick-up passengers.
- Parking: If you will be parking, use the new Terminal 1 Parking Plaza which is a multi-level garage directly across from Terminal 1.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
- Pickup: Rideshare services can pick up passengers in the new location accessed via a crosswalk from Terminal 1 arrival exit at ground level.
- Drop-off: Rideshare drivers would drop-off passengers in the departures roadway on the third floor.
Taxi or Shuttle
- Taxi Stands: Taxis are available at the taxi stand located outside the baggage claim on the ground level.
- Shuttles: Airport service is provided by many hotels and shuttle companies. Shuttle services are located in the ground transportation area.
Public Transit (Bus)
- Route 992: The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) Route 992 connects Downtown San Diego to the Airport.
- Bus Stop Location: With the opening of the new terminal, Route 992 loads and unloads passengers on the departures level (third floor) of both terminals.
TSA Security Checkpoints and Weighing Stations
The TSA security checkpoint in San Diego Airport Terminal 1 offers multiple lanes for the fast and efficient screening of passengers. With advanced scanners and extensive signs, the screening process will be safe and quick, without unnecessary delays. You will also find weighing stations close to the security checkpoint so that you can check the weight of your bags prior to going through security and avoid extra fees. This way, your whole experience at the airport will be seamless and easy.
TSA Security Checkpoint at Terminal 1
The newly constructed Terminal 1 has a centralized security checkpoint situated on the 3rd floor of the terminal, following the check-in area.
- There are 13 screening lanes at the security checkpoint.
- TSA PreCheck: A designated TSA PreCheck lane is available for eligible passengers, but the hours for this lane may change to accommodate operational needs. Passengers may check the official TSA website for current hours.
- Clear: There are also lanes for travelers with a CLEAR membership.
Wait Times at Terminal 1
The processing time for passengers at SAN Airport Terminal 1 fluctuates per activity and daypart. Generally speaking, check-in lasts 15–25 minutes, then TSA security screening lasts around 10–30 minutes, depending on busy travel times. Baggage claim for arrivals takes about 10–20 minutes, while travel time between gates can take about 5–15 minutes. Knowing processing times allows travelers to establish arrival and return times to reduce stress and optimize a smooth travel experience, all under the terminal’s modern infrastructure.
Weighing Stations at Terminal 1
Although it is uncommon for airports to have dedicated, free baggage scales, there are several options for weighing baggage in Terminal 1. Below are the baggage weight policies for the airlines operating out of Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport (SAN).
- Southwest Airlines
- Checked baggage: You may check two bags free of charge, as long as they weigh no more than 50 lbs. (22.7 kg).
- Carry-on: There is no specific weight limit for a carry-on bag.
- Overweight baggage fees: A fee of $100 per bag will be charged for checked bags weighing between 51 and 70 lbs., and costs increase for bags weighing more.
- Breeze Airways
- Checked baggage: Each checked bag must weigh no more than 50 lbs. (22.7 kg).
- Carry-on: Must weigh no more than 35 lbs. (15.9 kg).
- Overweight baggage fees: Overweight baggage fees are applicable for bags that weigh between 51 to 99 lbs. Additional costs will accrue for overweight baggage.
- Sun Country Airlines
- Checked baggage: Checked baggage must weigh no more than 50 lbs. (22.7 kg).
- Overweight baggage fees: An overweight baggage fee of $20 is charged for bags that weigh between 51 and 60 lbs. and $60 will be charged for bags that weigh between 61 and 99 lbs.
Restaurants at San Diego Airport Terminal 1
Travelers at San Diego Airport’s Terminal 1 have a great deal of choices for eating. Food options have a wide range from grab and go to table service dining. You can refer to the San Diego Airport Terminal 1 map to locate food and drink options around the concourses throughout the terminal when you are ready to eat or drink something and want to get something to eat without navigating the terminal. The detail information are listed below:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine Type | Location in Terminal 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Better Buzz Coffee | Coffee & Pastries | Near Gate 3 |
| The Taco Stand | Mexican Street Food | Near Gate 5 |
| Craft by Smoke and Fire | American Grill | Near Gate 5 |
| Puesto | Modern Mexican | Near Gate 5 |
| Parakeet Café | Healthy & Organic | Near Gate 3 |
| Tony Hawk’s Chicken & Tacos | Fast Casual Fusion | Near Gate 5 |
| Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza | Pizza & American | Near Gate 3 |
| Kettner Exchange Express | Upscale American | Near Gate 5 |
| QDOBA Mexican Eats | Mexican | Near Gate 3 |
| Einstein Bros. Bagels | Breakfast & Snacks | Near Gate 3 |
Shopping Hubs and Retail Experience at San Diego Terminal 1
Terminal 1 provides a dynamic shopping experience filled with shops, convenience stores, and specialty shops. In the terminal, travelers discover travel essentials, gifts, and items that are unique to the area while waiting for a flight, but here you will also find a very convenient shopping experience. Empty shopping pods have been strategically located throughout the concourse, creating an overall accessible, unique, and comfortable shopping experience for leisure travelers and business travelers:
| Store Name | Category | Location in Terminal 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Hudson News | Newsstand & Convenience | Near Gate 3 |
| Tech on the Go | Electronics & Accessories | Near Gate 5 |
| Bay Books of Coronado | Books & Magazines | Near Gate 5 |
| Ciao Gourmet Market | Snacks & Gifts | Near Gate 5 |
| Einstein Bros. Bagels | Food & Beverage | Near Gate 3 |
| Beach House | Apparel & Souvenirs | Near Gate 5 |
| Shades of Time | Fashion Accessories | Near Gate 5 |
| Where Traveler | Travel & Local Guides | Near Gate 3 |
| KUSI News | Newsstand | Near Gate 5 |
| ATM & Essentials Kiosk | Financial Services | Near Gate 3 |
San Diego Terminal 1 Lost and Found
The new San Diego Terminal 1 lost and found policy is managed centrally by the San Diego International Airport Lost and Found department.
SAN Airport Lost and Found Office
- To report an item you lost, it is required to report it through the online form on the airport’s official website, for items that were lost in a common area of the terminal, such as a gate, a restaurant, a store, or in the parking garage.
- Phone: (619) 400-2140.
TSA checkpoint Lost and Found
- What to report: If you lost an item in a TSA security screening checkpoint (in your bin) you need to contact the TSA directly.
- TSA contact: It is possible to report a lost item using the online form on the TSA official website.
Airline specific lost and found
- Items left on the plane: For items left on the plane, you will have to contact the airline you flew with.
- Procedure: The airline will require you to fill out a lost item form on their website with detailed information about the item.
Smoking Areas at San Diego Terminal 1
At San Diego International Airport (SAN) in the new Terminal 1, smoking is only allowed in certain designated areas outside of the terminal building. Smoking is not allowed anyplace inside the terminal, and once you have gone through security checkpoints, there are no designated smoke areas.
Smoking areas Outside Terminal 1
- Arrivals level (ground level): Designated smoking areas on the outside sidewalk near the baggage claim area.
- Departures level (third level): Designated smoking areas on the outside sidewalk near the check-in area.
Hotels Near San Diego Airport Terminal 1
There are many hotels located near Terminal 1 that offer convenient accommodations for travelers. The accommodations range from luxurious hotels with full service amenities to budget hotels with minimal service. Most hotels are only a quick drive or shuttle ride from the terminal, making getting to and from the terminal quick and easy, especially for early departures or late arrivals. Many of the hotels near the terminal also have on-site restaurants, gyms and business centers, these hotels are listed below:
| Hotel Name | Distance from Terminal 1 | Airport Shuttle |
|---|---|---|
| Holiday Inn Express San Diego Airport–Old Town | 0.9 miles | Yes |
| Hilton San Diego Airport/Harbor Island | 1.1 miles | Yes |
| Hampton Inn & Suites San Diego Airport Liberty Station | 1.2 miles | Yes |
| Western Inn Old Town | 1.2 miles | No |
| Residence Inn by Marriott San Diego Downtown | 1.4 miles | No |
| Wyndham San Diego Bayside | 1.5 miles | Yes |
| Hampton Inn San Diego–Downtown | 1.5 miles | No |
| DoubleTree by Hilton San Diego Bayside | 1.9 miles | Yes |
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 Special Accessibilities and Features
SAN has a new Terminal 1 that includes various accessibility features and special amenities that allow for increased inclusivity and ease of travel.
- Wheelchair accessibility: The terminal has wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating throughout the terminal. Mobility scooters are also available to rent if needed.
- Accessible restrooms: This terminal includes standard multi-stall restrooms, but it also has larger accessible restrooms, all-gender restrooms, and changing tables.
- Elevators and escalators: The two elevators and an escalator connect the three levels of the terminal. The escalators are equipped with technology that saves energy by slowing down when not in use.
- Accessible directories: the touch screens that provide accessible restroom information, AEDs, and visual paging, so you can view the information as needed, and your experience will not be hindered by what you cannot see.
- TSA Cares: If you have a medical condition or a disability, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can help. You can request a Passenger Support Specialist (PSS) at least 72 hours prior to your flight by filling out the TSA Cares form or by calling (855) 787-2227.
Amenities and Services at San Diego Airport Terminal 1
Terminal 1 at San Diego Airport features a comprehensive selection of passenger amenities and services. Facilities include contemporary lounges, charging stations, complimentary Wi-Fi, baggage support, and spaces for families. With clear signage, digital flight displays, and welcoming personnel, the terminal creates a smooth travel experience with efficiency and comfort for all passengers, including domestic and international.
| Transportation and mobility | San Diego Flyer Autonomous wheelchairs |
| Comfort and relaxation | Art Installation Quiet Areas Water Hydration Stations |
| Technology and accessibility | High Speed Wi-Fi Charging stations Accessible facilities Real-time information ATMs |
| Family-friendly amenities | Kids play area Changing tables Pet relief areas |
| Information and assistance | Information Desks Lost and Found |
San Diego Airport Other Terminal
Conclusion,
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 features innovative design, upgraded facilities, and improved operations meant to provide an efficient travel experience. The terminal allows well-planned arrival and departure, various dining options, and retail zones, with enhanced passenger centered facilities for airline flight. The combinations of directional signage, flight arrival and departure information, has simplified security leads to convenience and comfort. The terminal 1 is continuously being expanded towards the advanced facility design, passenger-friendly environment and a major point for both domestic and international passenger.
FAQs on San Diego International Airport Terminal 1
Terminal 1 primarily serves Southwest Airlines and Alaska Airlines, handling both domestic and short-haul flights.
The New T1 redevelopment is a $3.8 billion project to replace the aging terminal with a modern facility featuring 30 gates, expanded amenities, and improved access. Completion is expected by 2028.
Yes, Terminal 1 remains operational during phased construction, with 19 gates currently open and more to come.
SAN Terminal 1 offers local favorites like Better Buzz Coffee, The Taco Stand, and a Tony Hawk-themed restaurant, along with national chains.
Baggage claim is on the lower level of Terminal 1, near ground transportation and rental car shuttles.
Yes, TSA PreCheck lanes are available at Terminal 1 for eligible passengers.
Absolutely. Terminal 1 offers ADA-compliant services, including wheelchair assistance, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
It’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights departing from Terminal 1.
Yes, Terminal 1 connects to Amtrak, COASTER commuter trains, and local buses. Ride-share and taxi services are also available.
A detailed map of Terminal 1 is available on the SAN Airport website.
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