SAN's Terminal 1 set to open nearly 5 years after construction began

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- The new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport (SAN) is almost ready for takeoff. It officially opens on Sept. 22.

The airport gave media a behind-the-scenes look as crews put finishing touches in place.

 “Really the need for this terminal was to accommodate the passengers,” said Nicole Hall, the public information officer for SAN.

The new Terminal 1, measuring more than one million square feet, is much larger than the old one, which was just over 300,000.

“That terminal really was never designed to handle the nearly 10 million people that went through that terminal in 2024,” said Hall.

Travelers will see changes designed to make their experience more efficient from curbside to gate – like additional check in kiosks, security lanes, clear kiosks, restaurants and restrooms.

The new baggage claim carousels have more than 4 miles of baggage belt – but even with all the new equipment, the airline staff ultimately determine how quickly you’ll get your bag.

The terminal also features artwork unique to San Diego.

 “Above the checkpoint lane, we have a beautiful Torrey Pines work of art…a stunning work of art that will really show you the Torrey Pine that is native to San Diego,” said Hall.

Many popular popular dining options are also being added to the new terminal, including Better Buzz, Lofty Coffee and McDonalds.

Travelers also have the option to soak up the sunshine on the outdoor dining terrace with sweeping views of downtown San Diego.

If you’ve heard rumors about the possibility of a Chick-fil-A or Puesto opening at the airport, they’re true and are expected to open in 2028 during the next phase of construction.

“We will be opening up two different lounges," Hall added. "We have one lounge that is an escape lounge."

For now, Phase One remains on schedule.

“The total budget for the terminal one is $3.8 billion dollars and we are so proud and so happy that the project has been on time and on budget,” said Hall.

Terminal 1 will handle mostly domestic flights on airlines including Southwest, Sun Country, Spirit, Frontier and Jetblue, with more to be added in future phases.