Busiest single-runway airport in the United States. That’s quite a title for San Diego International Airport. This airport is more than just a place to catch a flight. It is a portal to the world.
San Diego International Airport is located a mere three miles northwest of downtown San Diego. Its story stretches back to August 16, 1928. Then it was dedicated as San Diego Municipal Airport Lindbergh Field. Imagine the excitement. 140 Navy and 82 Army planes soared overhead in a grand flyover.
Lindbergh Field was named after Charles Lindbergh. He was the famous aviator who piloted the Spirit of St. Louis. Lindbergh’s plane was actually built and tested right here in San Diego.
Interestingly, the area where San Diego International Airport now sits wasn’t always an airport. Before its development, it was a river outlet. The San Diego River flowed into San Diego Bay here. The river was later rerouted to the Pacific Ocean.
San Diego International Airport achieved another milestone in 1934. It gained international airport status. This opened San Diego to the world.
During World War II, the US Army Air Corps took control of the field in 1942. They built two camps there called Camp Consair and Camp Sahara. The airport became “jet-ready” long before jet airliners existed.
Pacific Southwest Airlines PSA established its headquarters in San Diego. It began service at Lindbergh Field in 1949. PSA was one of the first low-cost airlines.
The airport changed its name to San Diego International Airport in 2003. The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority believed this name was a better fit.
San Diego International Airport has faced proposals for relocation since 1950. However, these plans never materialized. Instead, the airport has focused on improving its existing facilities.
“The Green Build” was the first major expansion of San Diego International Airport in the 21st century. Completed in 2013, it added 10 gates, a new security area, and expanded concessions. A new consolidated rental car facility opened in 2016. A new immigration and customs facility at Terminal 2 West was completed in June 2018.
Currently, San Diego International Airport is undergoing a major transformation. Construction is underway to replace Terminal 1. The first phase is set to open in 2025. It will feature 19 new gates. The second phase will replace the original Terminal 1 with 11 additional gates.
San Diego International Airport has one runway. Westerly winds are common. Most takeoffs and landings use Runway 27.
Notably, the approach to Runway 27 is steep. Pilots navigate utility poles and buildings near the runway. This creates a unique experience for passengers.
To address noise concerns, a curfew was implemented in 1979. Takeoffs are restricted between 11:30 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. Arrivals are permitted 24 hours a day.
San Diego International Airport offers convenient ground transportation options. These include the Metropolitan Transit System Route 992, which connects the airport to downtown San Diego.
The airport also has several facilities. These include the Airline Support Building. This building houses cargo operations and storage areas.
Interestingly, a portion of the southeast infield serves as a nesting site for the endangered California least tern. This migratory bird nests here between April and September.
San Diego International Airport connects the city to numerous destinations. As of January 2025, it has non-stop passenger flights to 75 domestic and 10 international destinations in 6 countries.
Today, San Diego International Airport stands as a testament to the city’s growth. From its humble beginnings as Lindbergh Field to its current status as a major international hub, the airport continues to evolve.