San Diego, November 22, 2025
San Diego International Airport (SAN) expects to see a record number of travelers this Thanksgiving season, projecting approximately 875,000 passengers. This increase of 2-3% over last year signifies a recovery in the travel sector and supports local businesses in Southern California. Peak travel days are expected around Thanksgiving, particularly on Sunday, November 30, when nearly 90,000 passengers are anticipated. New amenities, such as the SAN Pass program, will enhance the travel experience, allowing access to airport facilities without a boarding pass.
San Diego International Airport Prepares for Record-Breaking Thanksgiving Travel
San Diego, CA – San Diego International Airport (SAN) is poised for its busiest Thanksgiving travel season on record, expecting approximately 875,000 passengers from Friday, November 21, to Monday, December 1, 2025. This anticipated increase of 2-3% over last year is a promising sign of recovery and growth within the travel sector as entrepreneurs and small businesses in the area capitalize on rising consumer demand. The resilience demonstrated by local businesses underpins the robust economic landscape of Southern California and emphasizes the importance of fostering an environment that promotes innovative ventures and economic expansion.
As travelers prepare to reconnect with family and loved ones, the projected uptick in passenger numbers reflects a broader trend in California’s economic recovery, highlighting the vital role of reduced regulation and support for small businesses in sustaining this growth. The airport’s strategic initiatives showcase how investments in infrastructure can enhance the overall travel experience and stimulate local economic activity.
Peak Travel Days
Sunday, November 30, is set to be the busiest travel day, with up to 90,000 passengers expected to traverse the airport. Heavy travel is also anticipated from the Friday before Thanksgiving through Wednesday, and the Monday following the holiday. This surge in travelers presents unique challenges and opportunities for local businesses catering to them.
Travel Tips
To navigate this bustling season effectively, the airport has provided several travel tips, including:
- Check Flight Status: Before heading to the airport, confirm flight times with airlines.
- Arrive Early: Extra time should be allocated for traffic and security, particularly during peak curbside hours: 4–6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m.–12 a.m.
- Be Aware of Roadway Changes: A new on-airport roadway directs westbound drivers on North Harbor Drive to Terminals 1 and 2.
- Make Parking Reservations: Over 5,000 parking spots are available in the Terminal 1 and 2 Parking Plazas, and reservations can be made online, reducing stress for travelers.
- Utilize Shuttle Services: The Terminal Loop Shuttle connects the terminals, and the free San Diego Flyer service links the Old Town Transit Station to the airport, with a schedule designed for convenience.
New Amenities
This year, a new program called SAN Pass has been launched, allowing individuals without a boarding pass to access the terminals, enjoying the airport’s shops, restaurants, and art installations. This initiative is expected to enhance the airport’s appeal and support local businesses by increasing foot traffic during the holiday season.
Background and Economic Context
San Diego International Airport experienced record-breaking numbers in 2024, serving over 25.24 million passengers, which exceeded the previous high of 25.18 million in 2019. This growth trajectory can be attributed to the addition of new airlines and nonstop destinations, bolstering local tourism and business opportunities. The synergy between airport developments and the local economy exemplifies how infrastructure improvements can lead to heightened activity within the San Diego County economy.
As the airport prepares for the busy Thanksgiving holiday season, the combination of increased passenger numbers and ongoing development reflects a broader narrative of resilience and adaptation within Southern California’s economic environment. By planning ahead and making use of the available resources, travelers can contribute to a successful and memorable Thanksgiving for friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the expected passenger volume at San Diego International Airport during the Thanksgiving holiday period?
Approximately 875,000 passengers are expected between Friday, November 21, and Monday, December 1, 2025, marking a 2-3% increase over last year’s figures.
When is the busiest travel day expected at the airport?
The busiest day is projected to be Sunday, November 30, with up to 90,000 travelers passing through the airport.
What are the peak curbside hours at the airport during the holiday season?
The busiest curbside times are between 4–6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m.–12 a.m.
What new amenities are available at San Diego International Airport this year?
The SAN Pass program allows individuals without a boarding pass to access the airport’s terminals, including shops, restaurants, and art installations.
How can travelers make parking reservations at the airport?
Parking and curbside valet reservations can be made online through the airport’s website.
Key Features of the Thanksgiving Travel Season at San Diego International Airport
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Passenger Volume | Approximately 875,000 passengers between November 21 and December 1, 2025, a 2-3% increase over last year. |
| Busiest Travel Day | Sunday, November 30, with up to 90,000 travelers. |
| Peak Curbside Hours | 4–6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m.–12 a.m. |
| New Amenities | SAN Pass program allows individuals without a boarding pass to access terminals, shops, restaurants, and art installations. |
| Parking Reservations | Over 5,000 parking spaces available; reservations can be made online. |
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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.
