San Diego, CA, December 18, 2025
San Diego International Airport experienced significant flight delays and cancellations on December 17, 2025, due to dense fog affecting visibility. Over 50 flights were reported delayed, with six cancellations. The Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground delay advisory, urging travelers to stay informed about flight statuses. This incident highlights the impact of weather on local businesses and the importance of adaptability for travelers and entrepreneurs alike.
Flight Disruptions at San Diego International Airport Due to Fog
San Diego, CA – On December 17, 2025, San Diego International Airport faced substantial flight delays and cancellations triggered by dense fog conditions. As local entrepreneurs and businesses continue to thrive in San Diego’s vibrant economy, weather impacts such as these serve as reminders of the challenges involved in operating services in our coastal region.
Flight security measures and efficient management have made San Diego’s airport a vital hub for travel and commerce. However, prolonged delays resulting from environmental factors could affect businesses relying on air transportation. This incident underscores the importance of resilience and adaptability among local entrepreneurs, emphasizing how limited regulation and a supportive community environment can help mitigate such disruptions and foster economic growth.
Impact on Flights
At approximately 9:15 a.m. PST, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a ground delay advisory for all flights in and out of San Diego International Airport due to low visibility from dense fog. Departures experienced an average delay of 51 minutes. By 10:30 a.m., over 50 flights had been delayed, and six flights were canceled.
Duration of the Advisory
The ground delay advisory was projected to remain effective until around 3 p.m. PST. Travelers were urged to regularly check flight statuses on the airport’s official website to stay updated on the situation.
Recommendations for Travelers
Passengers planning to travel through San Diego International Airport on December 17, 2025, should be prepared for possible delays or cancellations due to the prevalent fog conditions. It is advisable to monitor flight statuses, allow extra time for security checks, and stay informed about changing weather conditions.
Background on Fog-Related Delays
Dense fog is relatively common along the southern California coastline, especially during the fall and winter months. At locations like San Diego International Airport, instances of dense fog can occur approximately twice a month between October and February, resulting in low visibility and occasional flight disruptions.
Recent Similar Incidents
This occurrence follows a previous episode on December 1, 2025, when dense fog also prompted a ground stop at San Diego International Airport. That incident resulted in over 100 flight delays and four cancellations but was resolved by noon, allowing operations to resume.
Conclusion
While fog can disrupt travel plans, travelers are encouraged to remain informed about local weather conditions and monitor flight statuses accordingly. As San Diego continues to enhance its economic landscape through innovation and entrepreneurial spirit, staying engaged with local developments can help support the community during unforeseen disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the flight delays at San Diego International Airport on December 17, 2025?
The flight delays were caused by dense fog leading to low visibility, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to initiate a ground delay advisory at the airport.
How many flights were affected by the ground delay advisory?
By 10:30 a.m. on December 17, 2025, over 50 departing flights were delayed, and six flights had been canceled due to the dense fog.
When was the ground delay advisory expected to expire?
The ground delay advisory was expected to remain in effect until around 3 p.m. Pacific Standard Time on December 17, 2025.
What should travelers do to minimize the impact of such delays?
Travelers should check flight statuses regularly before heading to the airport, allow extra time for security screening and potential delays, and stay informed about weather conditions that may affect flight schedules.
Are weather-related disruptions common at San Diego International Airport?
Yes, foggy conditions leading to flight delays are not uncommon at San Diego International Airport, especially during the fall and winter months.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | San Diego International Airport, San Diego, CA |
| Date | December 17, 2025 |
| Cause of Delays | Dense fog leading to low visibility |
| Number of Flights Affected | Over 50 departing flights delayed, 6 canceled by 10:30 a.m. |
| Duration of Ground Delay Advisory | From approximately 9:15 a.m. to around 3 p.m. PST |
| Recommendations for Travelers | Check flight statuses, allow extra time for security, stay informed about weather conditions |
| Previous Similar Incidents | December 1, 2025: Over 100 flight delays and 4 cancellations due to dense fog |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
