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San Diego International Opens New Terminal 1 With First Arrivals

The 19-gate debut starts a phased build to 30 gates targeted for completion in early 2028.

Overview

  • Flights from Honolulu and San Jose were the first to arrive Monday night, with all arrivals and departures shifting to the new facility Tuesday.
  • Only 19 gates are active now, with Phase 1B set to add 11 more gates and expanded amenities as the project advances toward its full buildout.
  • The 1967 Terminal 1 handled its final departure at 9:10 p.m. Monday, with demolition expected to begin within about a week and take roughly three months.
  • Passenger upgrades include a 13-lane security checkpoint, a baggage system sized for up to 2,000 bags per hour, indoor–outdoor spaces, public art, and a roster of local brands such as The Taco Stand, Better Buzz, Cutwater and Tony Hawk Public House.
  • Related infrastructure is already online, including a multi-stage parking plaza adding about 2,400 spaces this year and a new on-airport roadway that provides direct access to both terminals, as coverage cites a $3.8 billion program while the airport lists a $2.8 billion Terminal 1 budget funded through airline leases and federal grants.