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Traveling for the holidays? How to navigate San Diego International Airport during construction

Travelers waiting to claim their baggage inside Terminal 2 of the San Diego International Airport on May 30, 2022.
Travelers waiting to claim their baggage inside Terminal 2 of the San Diego International Airport on May 30, 2022.

San Diego International Airport is one year into a renovation that will eventually replace Terminal 1. There will be more gates, more restaurants, including outdoor dining and a play area for kids. A larger space for security is expected to allow for more efficient passenger processing, getting them on planes quickly.

But that is a long-term goal. Now, airport travelers will encounter the telltale signs of a major construction project. The roadway construction, temporary fencing and cranes may have passengers wondering: is the airport ready for this upcoming busy holiday travel season?

The Wall Street Journal thinks so. The paper recently ranked San Diego International Airport as the second best mid-size airport in the country despite the ongoing project. Airport spokeswoman Sabrina LoPiccolo said the airport is working hard to ensure a smooth passenger experience. She said passengers can help with a little planning ahead.

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LoPiccolo said arriving two hours before domestic flights, and three hours before international flights is ideal.

“Parking is limited, so make a reservation early if you’re planning on parking at the airport. Or better yet, consider alternatives, like having a friend drop you off, or taking public transit,” LoPiccolo said.

The renovation will be finished in stages. A new parking structure for Terminal 1 is expected to be completed in late 2023.

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  • Congressman Mike Levin, D-San Juan Capistrano, secured a third term representing San Diego’s 49th District. He joins us to talk about bipartisianship and the next Congress. Then, if you’ve been to the San Diego International Airport lately, you may have noticed it’s very much under construction. We have tips and advice for holiday travelers.