San Diego International Airport (SAN) Terminal 1 – Levels, Gates & Airlines
Initially opened in 1967, the San Diego Airport Terminal 1 is currently undergoing a major rebuild known as the “New T1” project to improve space, amenities, and access. The project was divided into two phases. The phase has opened with a standalone building featuring 19 gates, updated amenities, and a dual-storey building for arrivals and departures, a new entry road, and a parking structure with about 5,200 spaces. Phase 2 is expected to be completed in 2028. Terminal 1 will be demolished and replaced with an expanded structure, adding 11 more gates to bring the total to 30, along with additional infrastructure improvements designed to make travel at SAN smoother, safer, and more comfortable.
San Diego International Airport Terminal 1 Levels
Terminal 1 handles arrivals and departures on different levels.
| Level 1 | Arrivals, baggage claim, and ground transportation |
| Level 2 | Departures, airline check-in counters, ticketing, and security checkpoints |
Gates at San Diego Airport
As of Phase 1 opening in September 2025, there are 19 active gates. By 2028, the terminal will expand to 30 gates in total.
San Diego Airport Terminal 1 Airlines
Terminal 1 serves only domestic flights. The following airlines use SAN Airport Terminal 1 for their operations:
- Frontier Airlines
- Southwest Airlines
- Spirit Airlines
- Sun Country Airlines
- Breeze Airlines
- JetBlue Airlines
With more gates, better amenities, and easier access, San Diego Airport’s new Terminal 1 offers a smoother journey for domestic travellers.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
The new Terminal 1 has 19 gates in its first phase, with 11 more gates to be added in the second phase of construction. Once completed, it will have a total of 30 gates
No, it is mainly for domestic flights. International flights operate from SAN Terminal 2.
Terminal 1 is used by Frontier, Southwest, Spirit, Breeze Airlines, JetBlue Airlines, and Sun Country Airlines.
Services include parking, baggage claim, food and retail, check-in counters, TSA security, and ground transportation.
Phase 1 opened in 2025, and the full project is expected to finish by 2028.
Yes, there is a pedestrian walkway outside the secure area that connects the two terminals.
Currently, there is no lounge at Terminal 1.