Second phase of Terminal 1 construction to begin at San Diego International Airport

Sep 5, 2025 - 22:00
Second phase of Terminal 1 construction to begin at San Diego International Airport

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) -- Big changes are coming to San Diego International Airport (SAN) as construction kicks off on the next phase of the new Terminal 1 project. The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority announced Friday that Phase 1B of the New T1 development will begin with key closures starting Monday.

As part of the construction preparations, the arrivals roadway that connects Terminals 1 and 2 will close beginning on Sept. 8 to provide safe access for construction crews. Travelers driving between the two terminals will need to use designated on-airport detour routes.

The airport authority has provided detailed maps, seen below, and an animated detour video to help drivers navigate the changes.

(Courtesy of San Diego County Regional Airport Authority)

For pedestrians, the existing outdoor walkway between Terminals 1 and 2 will remain open until Sept. 22. After that, travelers on foot will need to use the free Terminal Loop Shuttle, which runs daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Shuttle pickup points are also available on the airport’s website.

A major milestone will occur on the night of Sept. 22, when the existing Terminal 1 closes permanently following the departure of its final flights. The building will then be demolished to make room for Phase 1B construction, officials confirmed.

Once complete, Phase 1B will bring 11 additional gates, upgraded infrastructure, and enhanced passenger amenities such as customer lounges to the New T1. This marks a significant step toward completing the modernized terminal, which aims to meet growing passenger demand and improve the airport experience.

Real-time construction updates and detour information are available at san.org. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead and stay informed of ongoing changes.