San Diego is primarily served by San Diego International Airport (SAN), which is one of the busiest single-runway airports in the world, handling over 25 million passengers annually. Located just 3 miles from downtown San Diego, SAN offers direct flights to several domestic and international destinations. Another notable airport is McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) in Carlsbad, which mainly serves general aviation and some commercial flights. Additionally, Brown Field Municipal Airport and Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport cater primarily to private and charter aviation. These airports play a crucial role in supporting the region’s transportation and economic infrastructure.
San Diego County is served by several key airports, each catering to different types of aviation and travel needs. The most prominent is San Diego International Airport (SAN), located just 3 miles northwest of downtown San Diego. Handling over 25 million passengers annually, SAN is one of the busiest single-runway airports globally. This airport is vital for both domestic and international travel, offering direct flights to major cities in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, and Asia. San Diego International operates out of two main terminals and is a major hub for airlines like Southwest, Alaska, and United. In 2022, it underwent significant upgrades, including new gates and enhanced passenger facilities, to accommodate rising air traffic.
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) in Carlsbad primarily serves North San Diego County and is used for both general aviation and limited commercial flights. Located around 35 miles north of downtown San Diego, McClellan-Palomar provides convenient access for residents in the northern parts of the county. It offers shorter commercial flights, private jet services, and is essential for corporate and charter aviation.
In addition to SAN and McClellan-Palomar, Brown Field Municipal Airport and Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport play key roles in general aviation. Brown Field, located near the U.S.-Mexico border, primarily supports cargo services and private flights, and is also used by U.S. Customs for border-related operations. Montgomery-Gibbs, located in Kearny Mesa, is a hub for general aviation, providing services for private planes, flight schools, and charter services. It is one of the busiest general aviation airports in Southern California, with over 200,000 operations annually.
San Diego's airport infrastructure is critical to both its economy and tourism industry. SAN alone contributes billions of dollars annually to the regional economy, supporting thousands of jobs in aviation, tourism, and related industries. As air traffic continues to grow, ongoing development and improvements are planned to meet future demand, including potential expansions of facilities and runways at both SAN and McClellan-Palomar.
These airports collectively offer a robust network of aviation services, ensuring that San Diego remains well-connected both domestically and internationally. Their strategic locations within the county provide convenient travel options for residents, businesses, and tourists alike.
