Travelers looking to fly out of San Diego International Airport (SAN) for Thanksgiving should brace for crowds. The airport expects a surge in passengers, with an estimated 460,000 people anticipated to pass through from Tuesday, November 26, to Sunday, December 1. According to a recent announcement by the airport authority, this figure represents a 4 to 6 percent increase compared to last year's Thanksgiving travel period.
The busiest days are projected to be Tuesday, Wednesday before Thanksgiving, and Sunday. The airport has advised those planning to come to the airport, either for travel or to pick up or drop off loved ones, to adjust their schedules potentially and to plan definitely. Amid ongoing construction for the new Terminal 1, which is slated to open in 2025, passengers should expect to encounter some disruptions, according to a statement obtained by SAN.
In preparation for the holiday rush, SAN has offered several travel tips. Travelers should watch for any changes in roadway patterns around the airport and are encouraged to check flight statuses before arriving. Additionally, with the potential for traffic congestion due to the ongoing construction, passengers are recommended to arrive at the airport well before their flight timing. The parking situation has also been addressed, with SAN encouraging passengers to make parking reservations online to avoid the last-minute scramble for spaces.
For ease of transportation between terminals, SAN has continued its Terminal Loop Shuttle service, which is designed to transport passengers quickly and efficiently. The San Diego Flyer is also a free electric shuttle bus service that connects the Old Town Transit Station and SAN. "Need a ride in between Terminal 1 and 2? Passengers can hop on the Terminal Loop Shuttle," SAN authorities suggest. To mitigate the traffic congestion around the airport, passengers can utilize ride-sharing options or get dropped off by friends or family, as recommended by information released by SAN.
Despite the increased number of travelers and the challenges posed by construction, SAN has taken steps to ensure that the airport experience remains as smooth as possible. Shops and restaurants within the airport will be open to provide services to travelers. Finally, the airport has suggested using the Cell Phone Lot in the Terminal 2 West Parking Lot for those waiting to pick up arriving passengers, thus avoiding the need to circle around the crowded terminals. More details about the construction impacts, transit options, and others can be learned by visiting newt1.com, as detailed in the airport's informational release.
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