Southwest Airlines Terminal at San Diego International Airport (SAN)

At San Diego International Airport (SAN), Southwest Airlines flies through Terminal 1. All these flights are operated through 19 gates of this terminal, numbered 101 to 113. Moreover, there are numerous other facilities to cooperate with passengers on these flights. From expedited security screening procedures to advanced baggage handling systems, they can experience maximum comfort here. Besides, several amenities are also designed to cope with travel necessities, including food outlets, shops, lounges, etc. All these services are located across two levels at Terminal 1 of this airport.

Overview of Southwest Airlines at San Diego International Airport (SAN)

An overview of SAN Airport, along with Southwest Airlines, is mentioned below. Alongside, information about Terminal 1 is also added.

What Terminal is Southwest Airlines at San Diego International Airport (SAN)?

To fly in or out of SAN Airport, Southwest Airlines uses only Terminal 1. Also known as the New Terminal 1, this complex has been operational since 23 September 2025. On this date, Phase 1 officially opened to the public. Replacing the old facility, this terminal offers multiple facilities to Southwest passengers, including 19 gates, dining/retail options, a large ticketing hall, etc.

Southwest Departures Terminal at SAN

From Level 2 of Terminal 1 of San Diego International Airport, Southwest flights depart on a regular basis. To various domestic and international locations, these flights take off year-round. Also, this complex conducts some flight routes, such as SAN to PIT, seasonally as well.

• On Level 2, flyers can access the check-in desk to complete pre-flight formalities.
• The ticket counter operates from 04:15 A.M. to 12:00 A.M.
• Additionally, TSA PreCheck and CLEAR have dedicated lanes at this level to speed up the security processes.
• On average, wait times at SAN Airport are 15 to 30 minutes.
• Passengers must note that SAN Airport does not operate overnight departures.
• Hence, security gate areas close around 02:00 A.M.
• Afterwards, they have to re-enter the gate areas and proceed with their take-off procedures.

Southwest Arrivals Terminal at SAN

All the arriving flights of Southwest Airlines land at New Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport. To handle these arrivals, Level 1 of this terminal has various facilities.

• 7 carousels for baggage claim at SAN Airport are located in Terminal 1.
• To know the assigned one, check the screens.
• The facility for lost and found at SAN Airport is located on the Ground Level of Terminal 2.
• Besides, to reach Terminal 2, one can take the Inter-Terminal shuttles.

Amenities for Southwest Passengers at San Diego International Airport

Kids, elders, new mothers, and other travellers can have multiple facilities at Terminal 1 of SAN Airport. Whether play areas or lactation rooms, these services can be accessed across two levels at this terminal.

Lounges for Southwest Airlines Fliers at SAN Airport

As of now, there is no dedicated lounge at SAN Airport by Southwest Airlines. However, flyers can still access several lounges located in Terminal 2. But for the same, they have to walk between terminals and clear security again.

Aspire Lounge:

• Located in Terminal 2 East between Gates 33 and 23.
• Priority Pass members can access this lounge under specific terms and conditions. 
• Day passes are also available for purchase at $45 approximately.

Priority Pass:

• Based near Gate 34, Terminal 2 West, SAN Airport.
• Accessible to eligible users with:
  • Capital One Venture X cardholders
  • Select Priority Pass

Special Assistance for Southwest Passengers at San Diego Airport

SAN Airport’s layout is designed to support specially-abled passengers. It includes clear pathways, lifts, and mobility-friendly designs. Additionally, to move between areas, there are shuttles and more accessible options.

Besides, San Diego International Airport has a variety of facilities for different needs, including:

• Wheelchair assistance
• Accessible restrooms
• Elevators and ramps across terminals
• Accessible parking spaces
• Nursing rooms for families
• Service animal relief areas
• Information desks for guidance

Ground Transportation Options for Southwest Travellers at SAN Airport

Primarily, for Southwest flyers at SAN Airport, ground transportation is centered around Terminal 1. They can utilize the following options to commute in/out of the airport.

• Amtrak Intercity and COASTER trains
• San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS)
• Trolleys and city buses
• San Diego Flyer free shuttle
• Rental car center
• Taxis
• Rideshare (Uber and Lyft)
• Airport courtesy shuttles

Map of Southwest Terminal at San Diego International Airport

To access Terminal 1 of SAN Airport, a map can be utilised. This feature shows the location of this terminal, along with several crucial desks/counters within it. Moreover, to get directions for any restaurant, shop, or other amenity within the terminal, this feature can be used.

In sum, the new Terminal 1 is dedicated to arrivals and departures of Southwest Airlines at San Diego International Airport. This building has a well-structured layout for easy navigation of its passengers. Moreover, to commute inside or outside the complex, a wide range of transit options is also available.