Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport. The terminal is currently undergoing a complete replacement project affecting access routes and gate locations.
Terminal 1 serves Southwest and several other carriers with check-in counters on the departure level. The ongoing construction means the walk from check-in to some gates takes longer than pre-project conditions.
This guide covers every airline’s terminal at SAN, security checkpoint locations, and exactly how early to arrive. You will know where to go before you leave for the airport.
Southwest Airlines Terminal San Diego
Southwest Airlines operates exclusively from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters are located on the Terminal 1 East departure level.
The gate areas for Southwest span both the existing Terminal 1 gates and newly opened replacement facility gates. Confirm your specific gate on the Southwest Airlines app or boarding pass before heading to security.
Budget travelers flying Southwest should check bags at the Terminal 1 East curbside skycap stations when available. The skycap line is often shorter than the indoor check-in counter queue during morning peak periods.
The Terminal 1 replacement project is opening new gates in phases throughout 2026. Some Southwest flights now depart from gates in the brand new facility with modern seating and charging stations.
Families with children should allow extra time to navigate Terminal 1 during the construction period. The temporary walkways from check-in to certain gates can add 5 to 10 minutes of walking compared to the permanent configuration.
Key Takeaway: Southwest Airlines is in Terminal 1 at SAN; the ongoing construction project means gate locations are shifting throughout 2026.
San Diego Airport Terminal Guide
San Diego International Airport has two passenger terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, with Terminal 2 split into East and West sections. The Commuter Terminal serves a small number of regional turboprop flights.
The terminals are not connected post-security. Passengers cannot walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 after clearing the security checkpoint without exiting and re-entering.
Business travelers connecting between airlines in different terminals must exit security and reclear. A minimum 90-minute connection time is recommended when switching between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 airlines.
A pre-security pedestrian walkway connects the terminals along the airport loop road. The walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes on foot.
First-time SAN flyers should confirm their terminal before arriving because rideshare drop-off and parking garage access differ between the two terminals. The terminal assignment determines which parking structure is closest.
San Diego International Airport Airlines List
San Diego International Airport serves 12 commercial passenger airlines operating from Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and the Commuter Terminal. Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines are the primary Terminal 1 carriers.
Terminal 2 East and West handle American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, JetBlue Airways, British Airways, Japan Airlines, Air Canada, and Hawaiian Airlines. The international arrivals facility is located in Terminal 2 East.
Budget travelers will find Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier all operating from Terminal 1 at SAN. This makes Terminal 1 the budget carrier hub for the airport with all three low-fare airlines sharing the same terminal complex.
International flights from British Airways to London Heathrow and Japan Airlines to Tokyo Narita operate from Terminal 2 East. Air Canada flights to Canadian destinations also depart from Terminal 2.
Business travelers flying American, Delta, or United will use Terminal 2 for all SAN operations. These three carriers occupy dedicated check-in areas in Terminal 2 East and West with their own security checkpoint access.
| Airline | Terminal | Check-In Location | Best Security Checkpoint |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southwest Airlines | Terminal 1 | Terminal 1 East | Terminal 1 East (TSA PreCheck available) |
| Spirit Airlines | Terminal 1 | Terminal 1 | Terminal 1 East |
| Frontier Airlines | Terminal 1 | Terminal 1 | Terminal 1 East |
| American Airlines | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East |
| Delta Air Lines | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West |
| United Airlines | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West |
| Alaska Airlines | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East |
| JetBlue Airways | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West | Terminal 2 West |
| British Airways | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East |
| Japan Airlines | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East | Terminal 2 East |
Southwest Airlines San Diego Check-In and Gates
Southwest Airlines check-in at San Diego International Airport is located at the Terminal 1 East departure level. The check-in counters open approximately two hours before the first departure of the day.
Curbside skycap check-in is available at the Terminal 1 East curbside for passengers with checked bags. The skycap service handles baggage tagging and boarding pass printing outside the terminal.
Families with multiple checked bags should use the curbside skycap service at Terminal 1 East. The outdoor check-in avoids navigating the indoor queue with children and luggage during busy periods.
Southwest gates at SAN are split between the original Terminal 1 gates and the newly constructed replacement gates. Check your boarding pass carefully for the specific gate number and note which facility section it is in.
Solo travelers with only carry-on bags can proceed directly to security without visiting the check-in counter. The Southwest Airlines app provides a mobile boarding pass accepted at all SAN security checkpoints.
American Airlines Terminal San Diego
American Airlines operates from Terminal 2 East at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters are located on the Terminal 2 East departure level.
American Airlines operates multiple daily flights from SAN to its hubs at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, and Chicago O’Hare International Airport. Regional affiliates operate American Eagle service to Los Angeles International Airport and other West Coast destinations.
Business travelers flying American Airlines should use the Terminal 2 East security checkpoint for the closest access to American gates. TSA PreCheck is available at the Terminal 2 East checkpoint during standard operating hours.
The American Airlines Admirals Club is located in Terminal 2 East near the American gates. Access is available for Admirals Club members, AAdvantage elite status holders on qualifying itineraries, and day pass purchasers.
Frequent flyers with AAdvantage Executive Platinum or Platinum Pro status receive priority check-in at the dedicated elite counter in Terminal 2 East. The priority lane is marked separately from the general check-in queue.
Delta Air Lines Terminal San Diego
Delta Air Lines operates from Terminal 2 West at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters and Sky Priority desk are located on the Terminal 2 West departure level.
Delta Air Lines operates multiple daily flights from SAN to its hubs at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and Salt Lake City International Airport. The airline also serves John F. Kennedy International Airport and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
Business travelers flying Delta should use the Terminal 2 West security checkpoint for the most direct access to Delta gates. CLEAR is available at Terminal 2 West for expedited identity verification before TSA screening.
The Delta Air Lines Sky Club is not available at SAN. Delta passengers seeking lounge access should use the Priority Pass lounges or the Airspace Lounge if eligible through their credit card or membership.
Budget travelers flying Delta Basic Economy should check in on the Delta app before arriving. Basic Economy passengers cannot select seats in advance but can check in 24 hours before departure to receive an assigned seat.
United Airlines Terminal San Diego
United Airlines operates from Terminal 2 West at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters and Premier Access desk are on the Terminal 2 West departure level.
United Airlines operates multiple daily flights from SAN to its hubs at San Francisco International Airport, Denver International Airport, Chicago O’Hare, Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. The airline also serves Washington Dulles International Airport.
Business travelers flying United should use the Terminal 2 West security checkpoint. United Premier status members can use the Premier Access security lane where available during peak departure periods.
The United Airlines United Club is not available at SAN. United passengers seeking lounge access should use Priority Pass lounges or the Airspace Lounge in Terminal 2 if eligible.
Solo travelers on United Express regional jet flights should note that some regional gates are at the far end of Terminal 2 West. The walk from the checkpoint to these gates takes approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
Spirit Airlines Terminal San Diego
Spirit Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters are located in the Terminal 1 check-in area shared with other Terminal 1 carriers.
Spirit Airlines operates flights from SAN to Las Vegas McCarran International Airport, Dallas Fort Worth, and several other destinations with seasonal frequency changes. The airline’s ultra-low-cost model means all bags beyond a personal item incur a fee.
Budget travelers flying Spirit should check in online before arriving at the airport. Spirit Airlines charges a fee for airport check-in counter boarding pass printing that is avoided by using the mobile app.
The Spirit Airlines personal item size enforcement at the gate is strict at SAN. Gate agents actively measure bags before boarding and the fee for an oversized personal item charged as a carry-on exceeds the online carry-on purchase price.
Families flying Spirit should purchase carry-on and checked bags online when booking. The airport gate price for bags is significantly higher than the advance purchase price on Spirit.com for SAN departures.
Key Takeaway: Spirit operates from Terminal 1 at SAN with strict gate bag enforcement; pay for bags online to avoid the higher airport fee.
Alaska Airlines Terminal San Diego
Alaska Airlines operates from Terminal 2 East at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters are on the Terminal 2 East departure level.
Alaska Airlines operates flights from SAN to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Portland International Airport, San Francisco International Airport, and several other West Coast and transcontinental destinations. The airline has a significant presence at SAN with multiple daily departures.
Business travelers flying Alaska Airlines should use the Terminal 2 East security checkpoint. Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan elite members can use the priority check-in line at Terminal 2 East.
Alaska Airlines does not operate a lounge at SAN. Eligible passengers can access the Airspace Lounge in Terminal 2 or Priority Pass lounge options.
Solo travelers on Alaska Airlines can check in via the mobile app for a boarding pass and proceed directly to security. The Alaska app provides gate information and flight status updates.
JetBlue Terminal San Diego
JetBlue Airways operates from Terminal 2 West at San Diego International Airport. The airline’s check-in counters are located on the Terminal 2 West departure level.
JetBlue operates flights from SAN to John F. Kennedy International Airport and Boston Logan International Airport with Mint premium cabin service available on select transcontinental flights. The airline also serves Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
Business travelers flying JetBlue Mint should use the dedicated Mint check-in line at Terminal 2 West. Mint passengers also receive priority security access where available at the Terminal 2 West checkpoint.
The JetBlue Mint transcontinental service from SAN offers lie-flat seats on the Airbus A321LR aircraft. This is the only lie-flat domestic premium product available from San Diego on any airline.
Budget travelers flying JetBlue Blue Basic fares should check in online to avoid the airport check-in counter fee. JetBlue charges for airport check-in on Blue Basic tickets at SAN.
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 vs Terminal 2
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are separate terminal buildings not connected post-security. Terminal 1 serves primarily budget carriers while Terminal 2 handles full-service airlines and all international flights.
Terminal 1 is currently undergoing a complete replacement project with new gates opening in phases. The new Terminal 1 facility features modern seating, improved dining options, and a significantly better passenger experience than the aging original structure.
Budget travelers flying Southwest, Spirit, or Frontier will use Terminal 1 exclusively. The budget carrier concentration in one terminal simplifies airport navigation for travelers comparing fares across these three airlines.
Terminal 2 offers more dining and retail options than Terminal 1 during the construction period. The Terminal 2 West food court and Terminal 2 East restaurant selection are both superior to current Terminal 1 offerings.
Business travelers on American, Delta, or United will find Terminal 2 to be the more comfortable pre-flight experience. The terminal has more seating, better power outlet availability, and faster food service than the construction-affected Terminal 1.
| Terminal | Airlines | Post-Security Connectivity | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1 | Southwest, Spirit, Frontier | Not connected to T2 | Budget travelers |
| Terminal 2 East | American, Alaska, British Airways, Japan Airlines | Connected to T2 West | International, American flyers |
| Terminal 2 West | Delta, United, JetBlue, Air Canada, Hawaiian | Connected to T2 East | Delta, United flyers |
| Commuter Terminal | Regional turboprop operators | Standalone | Small regional flights |
San Diego Airport Security Checkpoints and Wait Times
San Diego International Airport has security checkpoints at Terminal 1 East, Terminal 1 West (subject to construction status), Terminal 2 East, and Terminal 2 West. TSA PreCheck lanes are available at all open checkpoints during standard operating hours.
CLEAR expedited identity verification is available at Terminal 2 East and Terminal 2 West checkpoints. Terminal 1 currently does not offer CLEAR service during the construction period.
Business travelers should budget 15 to 25 minutes for standard security at SAN during non-peak periods. Peak morning hours between 6am and 8am on weekdays can push security wait times to 30 to 45 minutes at all checkpoints.
The TSA PreCheck lanes at Terminal 2 East and West typically process passengers in under 10 minutes. Terminal 1 East TSA PreCheck lane is available but the construction footprint has reduced the lane capacity compared to Terminal 2.
Families with children should use the standard security lanes rather than TSA PreCheck unless every family member over 12 has PreCheck on their boarding pass. Children 12 and under can accompany PreCheck-eligible adults through the PreCheck lane.
San Diego Airport Baggage Claim and Arrivals
San Diego International Airport baggage claim is located on the arrivals level of each terminal. Southwest Airlines arriving passengers collect checked bags at the Terminal 1 baggage claim area.
Terminal 1 baggage claim serves Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and Frontier Airlines arriving flights. The baggage claim area is accessible from the Terminal 1 arrivals curbside and the parking garage.
Families arriving at Terminal 1 should designate one adult to collect bags while another retrieves the vehicle from the parking garage or manages children. The Terminal 1 baggage claim area can become crowded when multiple flights arrive simultaneously.
Terminal 2 East baggage claim serves American Airlines, Alaska Airlines, British Airways, and Japan Airlines arriving passengers. International arriving passengers clear immigration in Terminal 2 East before accessing the baggage claim area.
First-time visitors arriving at SAN should note the terminal-specific rideshare pickup zones. Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 have separate designated rideshare pickup areas on the arrivals level.
San Diego Airport Ground Transportation by Terminal
San Diego International Airport ground transportation pickup zones differ between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Rideshare services including Uber and Lyft have designated pickup areas at each terminal.
The Terminal 1 rideshare pickup zone is located on the arrivals level outside the baggage claim area. Follow the rideshare signs after collecting checked bags for the designated pickup zone.
Solo travelers using rideshare from SAN should confirm the correct pickup zone in the app after collecting bags. The app detects your terminal location and directs you to the appropriate pickup point.
Taxi stands are located at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 arrivals curbsides. The taxi fare to downtown San Diego hotels typically runs on a metered rate with the trip taking approximately 10 to 15 minutes in light traffic.
Budget travelers can use the Metropolitan Transit System Route 992 bus connecting SAN to downtown San Diego and the Santa Fe Depot train station. The bus stop is located on the airport loop road accessible from both terminals.
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 Construction Update
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 is undergoing a complete replacement project with new gates, check-in facilities, and passenger amenities opening in phases through 2026 and beyond. Southwest Airlines passengers are directly affected by the construction.
The new Terminal 1 facility is opening in stages with some Southwest Airlines gates now operating from the new building. Check your boarding pass carefully for the specific gate number and facility designation.
Budget travelers should monitor the SAN airport website for the current Terminal 1 access route before departure. The construction project periodically shifts pedestrian walkways and curbside access patterns.
The Terminal 1 construction has temporarily reduced the number of operational security checkpoint lanes at Terminal 1 East. Budget extra time for security screening at Terminal 1 compared to Terminal 2 during peak hours.
Business travelers with a choice between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 airlines should prefer Terminal 2 during the construction period. The Terminal 2 security experience is currently faster and more predictable than Terminal 1.
Important Accuracy Notes for San Diego Airport Terminals
Terminal 1 construction at SAN is actively changing gate access routes, check-in counter locations, and security checkpoint configurations throughout 2026.
Verify the following directly before traveling:
Your airline’s current terminal assignment on the San Diego International Airport official website
Your specific gate location and terminal facility section on your boarding pass or airline app
Current Terminal 1 pedestrian access route from parking or drop-off on the SAN website
Security checkpoint operating hours for your departure terminal on the TSA website
The single most important action is confirming the Terminal 1 access route 72 hours before departure because construction phase changes happen without public notice.
How Early to Arrive at San Diego Airport
San Diego International Airport recommends arriving two hours before a domestic departure and three hours before an international departure. The Terminal 1 construction project means Southwest, Spirit, and Frontier passengers should budget additional time.
Southwest Airlines specifically recommends arriving 90 minutes to two hours before departure at SAN during the Terminal 1 construction period. The check-in counter and security checkpoint lines are less predictable than Terminal 2.
Business travelers with TSA PreCheck and no checked bags can arrive 60 to 75 minutes before departure at Terminal 2. Terminal 1 passengers with PreCheck should budget 75 to 90 minutes due to construction-affected checkpoint capacity.
The busiest departure periods at SAN are 6am to 8am and 11am to 1pm on weekdays. These peak windows see the longest security wait times at both terminals.
Families with checked bags flying Southwest from Terminal 1 should arrive a full two hours before departure. The checked bag line at Southwest during morning peak can extend significantly beyond the standard wait time.
Key Takeaway: Arrive two hours early for Terminal 1 departures during construction; Terminal 2 passengers with PreCheck can arrive 75 minutes before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions About San Diego Airport Terminals
What terminal is Southwest Airlines at San Diego airport?
Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport.
The airline’s check-in counters are on the Terminal 1 East departure level.
Some Southwest gates have moved to the new Terminal 1 replacement facility opening in phases through 2026.
What terminal is American Airlines in San Diego?
American Airlines operates from Terminal 2 East at San Diego International Airport.
The check-in counters and Admirals Club lounge are located in Terminal 2 East.
Use the Terminal 2 East security checkpoint for the closest access to American Airlines gates.
What terminal is Spirit Airlines at San Diego airport?
Spirit Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport.
The check-in counters are in the Terminal 1 check-in area shared with other Terminal 1 carriers.
Gate bag enforcement is strict at SAN so purchase carry-on and checked bags online before arrival.
Can you walk between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at San Diego airport?
Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are not connected post-security at San Diego International Airport.
A pre-security pedestrian walkway connects the terminals with a walk of 10 to 15 minutes.
Passengers connecting between airlines in different terminals must exit security and reclear.
How early should I arrive at San Diego airport for a Southwest flight?
Arrive two hours before a Southwest Airlines departure at San Diego International Airport.
The Terminal 1 construction project has reduced security checkpoint capacity at Terminal 1 East.
Southwest recommends 90 minutes to two hours early arrival during the Terminal 1 construction period.
Where do I pick up arriving passengers at San Diego airport?
Arriving passenger pickup zones differ between Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 at San Diego International Airport.
Rideshare services have designated pickup areas at each terminal on the arrivals level.
Check the airline terminal assignment on the SAN website before heading to the airport for pickup.
Southwest Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport with the ongoing replacement project changing gate locations throughout 2026. Terminal 2 serves American, Delta, United, Alaska, JetBlue, and all international carriers.
Check your specific terminal and gate assignment on your airline’s app 24 hours before departure. The Terminal 1 construction project means your gate location may differ from your last SAN flight experience.
Airline terminal assignments and security checkpoint hours at SAN change without public notice during the construction period. Verify your terminal on the San Diego International Airport website 72 hours before departure and allow extra time if flying from Terminal 1.
