By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–San Diego International Airport expects up to 1.4 million people arriving and departing during the upcoming winter holiday travel period, which runs for 18 days from December 19 through January 5, 2026.
Busiest travel days are anticipated to be December 23, December 28, and January 4. On average, the airport anticipates 75,000 travelers daily during the holiday travel period and 85,000 people on peak travel days.
The forecasted passenger volume this year is estimated to be a 4 to 5 percent increase over 2024. The increase is driven by airlines offering new and expanded service from the airport.
Most popular travel destinations from the airport are Las Vegas, San Francisco, Denver, Phoenix, and Seattle. The airport offers flights to more than 80 destinations globally.
Passengers are urged to plan ahead before heading to the airport. Below are suggested tips for travelers coming through SAN during the winter holiday travel period:
Avoid bringing prohibited items in carry-on luggage. Download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature. Or reach out to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Travelers can also send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).
Confirm flight time with the airline before heading to the airport.
Allow extra time for traffic and security, especially during peak curbside hours: 4–6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m.–12 a.m.
A new on-airport roadway now takes westbound drivers off North Harbor Drive to Terminals 1 and 2. Follow signage and drive safely.
Pick up loved ones faster by avoiding the right lane of the Arrivals roadway as drivers approach the entrances to Terminals 1 and 2. Choose a pickup area towards the west end of the Arrivals curbside and avoid creating a line of cars.
During peak travel times, consider dropping off loved ones who are flying out of the airport at the west end of the Arrivals curbside at Terminal 1 and 2; this helps avoid traffic congestion at the Departures level.
Whether dropping off or picking up, follow signage and stay within marked lanes. Be alert and ensure car doors and personal belongings are not blocking other drivers and passengers. Lastly, follow the directions of Airport Traffic Officers – they are there to ensure the safety of everyone at the airport.
Terminal 1 and 2 Parking Plazas are open and offer more than 8,000 parking spaces just steps away from the terminals. Parking and curbside valet reservations can be made on the airport’s website here.
Traveling between Terminal 1 & 2. Passengers can hop on the Terminal Loop Shuttle, which transports passengers between the terminals. The shuttle operates between 4 a.m. and 2 a.m.
The free electric shuttle between the Old Town Transit Station and the airport operates seven days a week, with an average arrival time of every 20 to 30 minutes. The first pick-up is at 4:45 a.m., and the last pick-up/drop-off is at 12:20 a.m. Visit San Diego Flyer for more information.
Have friends or family to drop off or pick up. Lyft, Uber, or other rideshare options are also good alternatives. Visit san.org/before-you-go-travel-tips/ride-services/ to learn more about pickup locations at Terminal 1 and 2.
Avoid circling when picking up. The Cell Phone Lot in the Terminal 2 West Parking Lot on McCain Road is the perfect place to wait for your party. The lot is open from 5:00 a.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Meet loved ones at the gate, send off a traveler, or explore the airport’s restaurants, shops, and art without a boarding pass. For more information on SAN Pass and to apply, click here.
Terminal shops and restaurants are open for meals, snacks, and travel essentials. Visit the website for hours and locations of airport concessionaires.
During December, the airport will host holiday carolers, musical performances, and photo opportunities with Santa and his elves in the terminals.
