San Diego International Airport Anticipates Busy Winter Holiday Travel

December 22, 2025

San Diego International Airport is preparing for its winter holiday travel season from December 19, 2025, through January 5, 2026, anticipating approximately 1. 4 million passengers throughout the 18-day period. Daily passenger volumes are expected to average 75,000 travelers, with peak days reaching 85,000, representing a 4-5 percent increase compared to the previous year due to expanded airline service.

Who is affected

Up to 1.4 million arriving and departing passengers during the holiday period
Airlines operating at San Diego International Airport
Families and friends dropping off or picking up travelers
Airport staff and Traffic Officers
Terminal shops, restaurants, and concessionaires
TSA security personnel
Ride-share drivers (Lyft, Uber)

What action is being taken

Airlines are offering new and expanded service from SAN
The airport is hosting holiday carolers, musical performances, and photo opportunities with Santa and his elves in the terminals during December
A new on-airport roadway is now taking westbound drivers off North Harbor Drive to Terminals 1 & 2
The Terminal Loop Shuttle is operating between terminals from 4 a.m. to 2 a.m.
The San Diego Flyer free electric shuttle is operating seven days a week between Old Town Transit Station and SAN
Terminal shops and restaurants are open for service

Why it matters

This holiday travel period represents a significant increase in passenger volume at San Diego International Airport, requiring careful coordination to prevent congestion and delays. The 4-5 percent year-over-year growth demonstrates increasing demand for air travel and expanded connectivity from San Diego to over 80 global destinations. Proper planning and utilization of available resources like advance parking reservations, alternative transportation, and early arrival times are critical to ensuring smooth operations during peak travel days when 85,000 passengers will move through the airport. The infrastructure improvements, including new roadways and expanded parking facilities with over 8,000 spaces, are essential to accommodating this growth while maintaining positive traveler experiences.

What's next

Passengers should check flight status with airlines before heading to the airport
Travelers should make parking reservations in advance through the airport's website
Passengers are urged to download the MyTSA app or contact @AskTSA for packing guidance
Travelers should allow extra time for traffic and security, particularly during peak curbside hours (4–6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m.–12 a.m.)

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint