SpottersWiki - User contributions [en]

San Diego International Airport

2024-06-03T01:36:22Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
''It was noted in December 2023 that this spot appeared to be closed as part of New Terminal 1 construction; it is unknown it if will reopen in the future.''

The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada''': A220-300
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-900
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 8, 737 MAX 9
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320-200, A321-200, A321neo
*'''Breeze Airways''': A220-300
*'''British Airways''': 777-200ER, 787-8
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': ERJ-175
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200, A321neo
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo, A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A350-900
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 8, 737 MAX 9, 777-200ER, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Metropolitan Transit Service bus [https://www.sdmts.com/getting-around/departures-and-schedules/schedules/992 Route 992], provides service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [https://www.sdmts.com/transit-services/trolley San Diego Trolley], [https://gonctd.com/services/coaster-commuter-rail/ Coaster], and [https://www.amtrak.com/routes/pacific-surfliner-train.html Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains. Cash is accepted on board for a single ride, as well as can be purchased from a Pronto kiosk located near baggage claim in the terminals, however transit users may instead wish to use the Pronto app on their phones or purchase a Pronto card from the kiosk, since Pronto fares include free transfers within 2 hours as well as daily and monthly fare caps. The 992 bus stops at MTS bus shelters located curbside directly outside the terminals.

The airport also operates a free shuttle called the [https://www.san.org/to-from/Public-Transportation#1178347-old-town-shuttle San Diego Flyer] which operates from the terminals to the Old Town Transit Center. Similar to downtown, connections can be made here to various bus routes as well as the Trolley, Coaster, and Amtrak Pacific Surfliner. The San Diego Flier stops at the Courtesy Vehicles area outside the terminals, which is also used for hotel and parking lot shuttles.

San Diego International Airport

2023-07-01T00:04:38Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada''': 737 MAX 8
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-900
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A321neo
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320-200, A321-200, A321neo
*'''British Airways''': A350-1000
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': ERJ-175
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo, A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A350-900
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 8, 737 MAX 9, 777-200ER, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2023-06-02T21:07:17Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada''': 737 MAX 8
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-900
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A321neo
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320-200, A321-200, A321neo
*'''British Airways''': A350-1000
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 ''(summer season only, not expected to operate in 2023)''
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo, A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A350-900
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 8, 737 MAX 9, 777-200ER, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2022-07-12T01:28:06Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada''': A320-200, 737 MAX 8
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-705, CRJ-900
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A320-200, A321neo
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175LR
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320-200, A321-200, A321neo
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300ER, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 ''(summer season only, not expected to operate in 2022)''
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo, A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A350-900
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''Swoop''': 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 8, 737 MAX 9, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2021-06-09T02:42:49Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-705, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319-100, A321-200
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A320-200, A321neo
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175LR
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320-200, A321-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-200ER
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300ER, 767-400ER, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (summer season only)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo, A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

Los Angeles International Airport

2021-06-08T18:08:37Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=Los Angeles International Airport|location=Los Angeles, California|iata=LAX|icao=KLAX|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.lawa.org/welcomelax.aspx|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=LAX&ll=33.944143,-118.405838&spn=0.060406,0.118721&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=133.90 North 120.95 South 119.80 Helicopters|atcground=121.65 North 121.75 South|atcclearance=121.40|atcapproach=124.30 Feeder 124.50 Final & Feeder 124.90 Feeder 127.40 (LEENA4) 128.10 (VISTA2)|atcdeparture=124.30 125.20 |atcatis=133.80 Arrivals 135.65 Departures|atcunicom=128.55|psh=http://www.plane-spotting-hotels.com/index.php/plane-spotting-los-angeles-lax/}}

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Theme Building===
[[File:LAX Theme Building.jpg|thumb]]
The LAX Theme Building is the iconic building in the middle of the LAX passenger terminal complex, shown in the photo at right. It hosts the Encounter Restaurant as well as an observation deck. Encounter Restaurant occupies the round portion of the building about halfway up. Windows provide views of the airport in all directions, though which parts you'll see depends on where you are seated. The observation deck is located on the roof of the restaurant. It closed in 2001 and reopened in July 2010. It is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 5pm, and there is no charge to enter the observation deck. This location is may be poor for photography, except for airport overview shots, as it is distant from aircraft though it is good for spotters who just which to watch traffic or log tail numbers. The airport occasionally hosts "Sunday Morning Coffee" events at the observation deck for plane spotters, aviation enthusiasts, and the general public.

===Airfield Tours===
The airport offers an airfield tour on the first Thursday of each month. For more information, see the [https://www.lawa.org/welcome_lax.aspx?id=766 LAX Community Relations web page].

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Jim Clutter Park (Imperial Hill)===
In the city of El Segundo. A small roadside park at the intersection of Imperial Avenue and Sheldon Street. A few tables and seats, for other facilities you need to walk west down the hill (towards the ocean) to the small shopping plaza. [http://www.redondo.org/depts/hbt/transit/beach_cities_transit/default.asp Beach Cities Transit] bus route 109 has a stop right at the park.

All movements on the South runways can be logged here although care must be taken not to miss those arrivals which turn off early. Some photography possible when traffic is westerly, few arrivals come far enough down although spectacular departure shots can be had with a long (300-400mm) lens, though shorter lenses work. A 200mm lens is sufficient for any aircraft larger than a 757. On the rare occasions traffic is landing to the East this is one of the finest locations in the land. Aircraft taxiing on taxiways B and C in the general vicinity of the American Airlines hangars, American Eagle remote terminal building, taxiways Q and S, and the Tom Bradley International Terminal can be photographed from here with a sufficiently powerful lens (300-400mm).

{{jplink|5641249}} (25R departure)
{{jplink|5641237}} (taxiway B)

===In-n-Out Burger===
At the corner of Sepulveda and Westchester, 10-15 minutes walk from the airport. Small grass area across the road from which all movements on the Northern runways can be seen. Limited photography as arrivals are almost directly overhead, and you are facing South. When a small aircraft (CRJ, ERJ, 737, A320) isn't blocked by the trees, a 55mm or smaller size lens can be used for a nice shot. However, walking to under the approach lights and jaywalking across Lincoln Blvd. can yield some very nice shots of inbound aircraft. Parking in this area is limited (for those driving to the spot) depending on the time of day if you park on the street, and can be sparse during lunch hours (11:00am - 2:30pm).
{{anetlink|1017460}}
{{jplink|8811235}}
There is a multi-story car park with good views from the top floor. No photography signs are present, and you will likely be told to leave.

===Vicksburg Avenue Bridge===
Passing over Sepulveda Boulevard and about 500 yards south of the In-N-Out Burger spotting location is the Vicksburg Avenue bridge. This location gives an amazing view of north side (Runways 24R & 24L) arrivals as the aircraft pass above the parking lots to the east of Sepulveda Boulevard. A 200mm or 300mm lens is perfect for this location. This location will give both classic arrival shots (1st Example Photo) taken at around 250mm though 200mm will do as well as profile shots (2nd Example Photo) taken at just over 100mm for heavies and just over 150mm for smaller aircraft. This location is less than a 5 minute walk from In-N-Out. To get here from In-N-Out, cross Sepulveda Boulevard at the crosswalk and walk south to the bridge. It is about 500 yards down. Under the bridge is always a cool and shady spot especially useful on hot summer days. Going up onto the bridge using the stairs on the south side of the bridge will also give good shots at about the same angle though you must cross to the north side of the bridge. This spot on the bridge also gives a glimpse of aircraft lined up on 24L and 24R (3rd Example Photo) This spot can be used year round and all day.
{{jplink|8811143}}
{{jplink|8814654}}
{{jplink|8811915}}

===Proud Bird Restaurant===
Off Aviation Boulevard beside the approach to the Southern runways. Good landing shots but care must be taken to avoid lampposts and trees. Shots can be taken from both the parking lot, and from the "backyard" where the old planes are on display. A good lens is suggested.

To achieve shots similar to those taken by In-n-Out, walk north on Aviation Blvd. to under the approach path for 25L (you will see the ILS antenna). Be warned as there is no sidewalk, so caution is advised when going for a shot.

===Flight Path Learning Center===
The Flight Path Learning Center is located at 6661 Imperial Hwy, and was formally known as the "Imperial Terminal". This building used to house some charter flights, and regular scheduled flights from MGM Grand Air. It sat empty for 10 years until it was re-opened as a learning center for LAX. The center contains information on the history of aviation, as well as several pictures of the airport (some notably from famed photographer Sam Chui) as well as aircraft scale models, flight attendant uniforms, and general airline shwag (playing cards, china, magazines, signs, even a TWA gate information sign). If you ask nicely, one of the fine docents (who are usually retired Flight Attendants who started work in the 1950's, or have been working at the airport for many years. Great conversations to be had), they will be glad to open one of the restricted access doors and allow you to stand out on the tarmac (behind a small fence) to get shots of the South side. The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 3pm. While it does not provide the greatest shots, it is defiantly worth a visit.
{{anetlink|1018047}}
{{anetlink|1046351}}
{{anetlink|1046350}}
http://www.flightpath.us/

===Dockweiler State Beach===
Along Vista Del Mar, there is a beach. On Vista Del Mar, there is parking along the streets and there are staircases that go down to the beach. You can watch takeoffs from both runways here either from your car, or down on the beach. You can stay as long as you want and since it is far enough from the airport, no one will yell at you for taking pictures. A good lens is suggested, and it may be busy in the summer.

===Westchester Parkway Bridge===
About 3/4 mile West of the In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda is a bridge over Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) that offers good views for aircraft arriving and departing on the 24s on the north side of the airport. During the winter, this spot is backlit with the sun to the south. The ideal time to utilize this location is summer evenings as aircraft use the 24s. When on this bridge you are very exposed to passing traffic and can make spotting in this location stressful or uneasy.

{{jplink|8814563}}
{{jplink|8814538}}

==Locations to Avoid==

===Cargo Parking===
There are 2 parking lots off the first and second cargo roads respectively. These were good locations prior to September 11, 2001, but are now patrolled frequently by not-very-friendly LAWA police and spotters will be asked to leave. However, a two person operation could be useful. Some have reported good experiences driving through the cargo complex. A common method is to drive constantly, stopping only when no police are around.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
33.944125, -118.402426~Theme Building;
33.943431, -118.4091~Tom Bradley International Terminal;
33.930934, -118.411578~Jim Clutter Park (Imperial Hill);
33.953644, -118.39674~In-n-Out Burger;
33.935581, -118.377353~Proud Bird Restaurant;
33.931962, -118.405446~Flight Path Learning Center;
33.936771, -118.44262~Dockweiler State Beach;
33.949672, -118.395982~Vicksburg Avenue Bridge;
33.953769, -118.411776~Westchester Parkway Bridge
| zoom=13
| type=satellite
}}

==Regular Traffic==

In some cases, airlines operate their check-in counters in a different terminal; this table reflects the terminal where the aircraft park.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Terminal'''
|-
|Aeroflot Russian Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Aer Lingus
|A330-200
|2
|-
|Aeromexico
|737-800
|2
|-
|Air Canada
|767-300, 787-9, A319, A320, A321
|6
|-
|Air China
|777-300ER, 787-9
|TBIT
|-
|Air France
|777-200, 777-300ER, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Air New Zealand
|777-200, 777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Air Tahiti Nui
|787-9
|TBIT
|-
|Alaska Airlines
|737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, A321
|6
|-
|Alitalia
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Allegiant Air
|A319, A320
|5
|-
|All Nippon Airways
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|American Airlines
|737-800, 777-200, 777-300ER, 787-8, A319, A321
|4, 5
|-
|American Eagle
|CRJ-700 (SkyWest), CRJ-900 (Mesa), E175 (Compass)
|5 (Remote)
|-
|Asiana Airlines
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Austrian Airlines
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Avianca
|767-200, A319, A320, A321
|TBIT
|-
|Boutique Air
|PC-12
|6
|-
|British Airways
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Cathay Pacific Airways
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|China Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|China Eastern Airlines
|777-300ER, A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|China Southern Airlines
|777-300ER, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Copa Airlines
|737-800
|TBIT
|-
|Delta Air Lines
|717-200, 737-800, 737-900, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, 767-400ER, 777-200, A319, A320, A330-300
|2, 3
|-
|Delta Connection
|CRJ-700 (SkyWest), E175 (Compass, Republic, SkyWest)
|2, 3
|-
|El Al Israel Airlines
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Emirates Airlines
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Ethiopian Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|EVA Air
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Fiji Airways
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Finnair
|A350-900
|TBIT
|-
|Frontier Airlines
|A319, A320
|5
|-
|Hainan Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|Hawaiian Airlines
|A321neo, A330-200
|5
|-
|Horizon Air
|Q400
|6
|-
|Iberia
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Japan Airlines
|777-300ER, 787-8
|TBIT
|-
|jetBlue Airways
|A320, A321
|5
|-
|KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
|787-10
|TBIT
|-
|Korean Air
|777-200, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|LATAM Airlines
|767-300, 787-8
|TBIT
|-
|LOT Polish Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|Lufthansa
|A340-600, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Mokulele Airlines
|Cessna 208
|6
|-
|Philippine Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Qantas Airways
|787-9, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Qatar Airways
|777-200LR
|TBIT
|-
|Saudia
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Scandinavian Airlines
|A330-300
|TBIT
|-
|Sichuan Airlines
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Singapore Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Southwest Airlines
|737-700, 737-800
|1, TBIT
|-
|Spirit Airlines
|A319, A320, A321
|5
|-
|Sun Country Airlines
|737-800
|5
|-
|Swiss International Air Lines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Thomas Cook Airlines
|A330-200
|6
|-
|Turkish Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|United Airlines
|737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, 757-200, 777-200, 787-9, A320
|7, 8
|-
|United Express
|CRJ-200 (SkyWest), CRJ-700 (SkyWest), E175 (SkyWest)
|7, 8
|-
|Virgin Atlantic Airways
|787-9
|2
|-
|Volaris
|A319, A320
|TBIT
|-
|WestJet Airlines
|737-600, 737-700, 737-800
|2
|-
|XL Airways France
|A330-200
|6
|}

===Cargo===

*AeroUnion (Airbus A300, Boeing 767-300)
*Air China Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*ABX Air Cargo/DHL (Boeing 767-200)
*Asiana Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Atlas Air (Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747-8)
*Cargolux (Boeing 747-400)
*Cathay Pacific Cargo (Boeing 747-8)
*China Airlines Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Emirates Sky Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*China Cargo Airlines (Boeing 777-200)
*EVA Air Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Kalitta Air (Boeing 747-200, Boeing 747-400)
*Korean Air Cargo (Boeing 747-8, Boeing 777-300)
*FedEx (Airbus A300-600, McDonnell Douglas MD-10, McDonnell Douglas MD-11, Boeing 767-300)
*Lufthansa Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*MAS Cargo (Boeing 767-300)
*Nippon Cargo Airlines (Boeing 747-8)
*Polar Air Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Qatar Air Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*Singapore Airlines Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*United Parcel Service (Boeing 767-300)

==Facilities and Transportation==

The [http://www.metro.net Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority] operates several bus lines that serve LAX and the surrounding area. Consult their web site for specific information. They also operate the Metro Rail system, with service to LAX provided at the Green Line's Aviation/LAX station, where a free shuttle bus provides connections to the airport terminals.

Los Angeles International Airport

2021-06-08T18:07:20Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=Los Angeles International Airport|location=Los Angeles, California|iata=LAX|icao=KLAX|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.lawa.org/welcomelax.aspx|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=LAX&ll=33.944143,-118.405838&spn=0.060406,0.118721&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=133.90 North 120.95 South 119.80 Helicopters|atcground=121.65 North 121.75 South|atcclearance=121.40|atcapproach=124.30 Feeder 124.50 Final & Feeder 124.90 Feeder 127.40 (LEENA4) 128.10 (VISTA2)|atcdeparture=124.30 125.20 |atcatis=133.80 Arrivals 135.65 Departures|atcunicom=128.55|psh=http://www.plane-spotting-hotels.com/index.php/plane-spotting-los-angeles-lax/}}

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Theme Building===
[[File:LAX Theme Building.jpg|thumb]]
The LAX Theme Building is the iconic building in the middle of the LAX passenger terminal complex, shown in the photo at right. It hosts the Encounter Restaurant as well as an observation deck. Encounter Restaurant occupies the round portion of the building about halfway up. Windows provide views of the airport in all directions, though which parts you'll see depends on where you are seated. The observation deck is located on the roof of the restaurant. It closed in 2001 and reopened in July 2010. It is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 8am to 5pm, and there is no charge to enter the observation deck. This location is may be poor for photography, except for airport overview shots, as it is distant from aircraft though it is good for spotters who just which to watch traffic or log tail numbers. The airport occasionally hosts "Sunday Morning Coffee" events at the observation deck for plane spotters, aviation enthusiasts, and the general public.

===Airfield Tours===
The airport offers an airfield tour on the first Thursday of each month. For more information, see the [https://www.lawa.org/welcome_lax.aspx?id=766 LAX Community Relations web page].

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Jim Clutter Park (Imperial Hill)===
In the city of El Segundo. A small roadside park at the intersection of Imperial Avenue and Sheldon Street. A few tables and seats, for other facilities you need to walk west down the hill (towards the ocean) to the small shopping plaza. [http://www.redondo.org/depts/hbt/transit/beach_cities_transit/default.asp Beach Cities Transit] bus route 109 has a stop right at the park.

All movements on the South runways can be logged here although care must be taken not to miss those arrivals which turn off early. Some photography possible when traffic is westerly, few arrivals come far enough down although spectacular departure shots can be had with a long (300-400mm) lens, though shorter lenses work. A 200mm lens is sufficient for any aircraft larger than a 757. On the rare occasions traffic is landing to the East this is one of the finest locations in the land. Aircraft taxiing on taxiways B and C in the general vicinity of the American Airlines hangars, American Eagle remote terminal building, taxiways Q and S, and the Tom Bradley International Terminal can be photographed from here with a sufficiently powerful lens (300-400mm).

{{jplink|5641249}} (25R departure)
{{jplink|5641237}} (taxiway B)

===In-n-Out Burger===
At the corner of Sepulveda and Westchester, 10-15 minutes walk from the airport. Small grass area across the road from which all movements on the Northern runways can be seen. Limited photography as arrivals are almost directly overhead, and you are facing South. When a small aircraft (CRJ, ERJ, 737, A320) isn't blocked by the trees, a 55mm or smaller size lens can be used for a nice shot. However, walking to under the approach lights and jaywalking across Lincoln Blvd. can yield some very nice shots of inbound aircraft. Parking in this area is limited (for those driving to the spot) depending on the time of day if you park on the street, and can be sparse during lunch hours (11:00am - 2:30pm).
{{anetlink|1017460}}
{{jplink|8811235}}
There is a multi-story car park with good views from the top floor. No photography signs are present, and you will likely be told to leave.

===Vicksburg Avenue Bridge===
Passing over Sepulveda Boulevard and about 500 yards south of the In-N-Out Burger spotting location is the Vicksburg Avenue bridge. This location gives an amazing view of north side (Runways 24R & 24L) arrivals as the aircraft pass above the parking lots to the east of Sepulveda Boulevard. A 200mm or 300mm lens is perfect for this location. This location will give both classic arrival shots (1st Example Photo) taken at around 250mm though 200mm will do as well as profile shots (2nd Example Photo) taken at just over 100mm for heavies and just over 150mm for smaller aircraft. This location is less than a 5 minute walk from In-N-Out. To get here from In-N-Out, cross Sepulveda Boulevard at the crosswalk and walk south to the bridge. It is about 500 yards down. Under the bridge is always a cool and shady spot especially useful on hot summer days. Going up onto the bridge using the stairs on the south side of the bridge will also give good shots at about the same angle though you must cross to the north side of the bridge. This spot on the bridge also gives a glimpse of aircraft lined up on 24L and 24R (3rd Example Photo) This spot can be used year round and all day.
{{jplink|8811143}}
{{jplink|8814654}}
{{jplink|8811915}}

===Proud Bird Restaurant===
Off Aviation Boulevard beside the approach to the Southern runways. Good landing shots but care must be taken to avoid lampposts and trees. Shots can be taken from both the parking lot, and from the "backyard" where the old planes are on display. A good lens is suggested.

To achieve shots similar to those taken by In-n-Out, walk north on Aviation Blvd. to under the approach path for 25L (you will see the ILS antenna). Be warned as there is no sidewalk, so caution is advised when going for a shot.

===Flight Path Learning Center===
The Flight Path Learning Center is located at 6661 Imperial Hwy, and was formally known as the "Imperial Terminal". This building used to house some charter flights, and regular scheduled flights from MGM Grand Air. It sat empty for 10 years until it was re-opened as a learning center for LAX. The center contains information on the history of aviation, as well as several pictures of the airport (some notably from famed photographer Sam Chui) as well as aircraft scale models, flight attendant uniforms, and general airline shwag (playing cards, china, magazines, signs, even a TWA gate information sign). If you ask nicely, one of the fine docents (who are usually retired Flight Attendants who started work in the 1950's, or have been working at the airport for many years. Great conversations to be had), they will be glad to open one of the restricted access doors and allow you to stand out on the tarmac (behind a small fence) to get shots of the South side. The center is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 3pm. While it does not provide the greatest shots, it is defiantly worth a visit.
{{anetlink|1018047}}
{{anetlink|1046351}}
{{anetlink|1046350}}
http://www.flightpath.us/

===Dockweiler State Beach===
Along Vista Del Mar, there is a beach. On Vista Del Mar, there is parking along the streets and there are staircases that go down to the beach. You can watch takeoffs from both runways here either from your car, or down on the beach. You can stay as long as you want and since it is far enough from the airport, no one will yell at you for taking pictures. A good lens is suggested, and it may be busy in the summer.

===Westchester Parkway Bridge===
About 3/4 mile West of the In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda is a bridge over Route 1 (Pacific Coast Highway) that offers good views for aircraft arriving and departing on the 24s on the north side of the airport. During the winter, this spot is backlit with the sun to the south. The ideal time to utilize this location is summer evenings as aircraft use the 24s. When on this bridge you are very exposed to passing traffic and can make spotting in this location stressful or uneasy.

{{jplink|8814563}}
{{jplink|8814538}}

==Locations to Avoid==

===Cargo Parking===
There are 2 parking lots off the first and second cargo roads respectively. These were good locations prior to September 11, 2001, but are now patrolled frequently by not-very-friendly LAWA police and spotters will be asked to leave. However, a two person operation could be useful. Some have reported good experiences driving through the cargo complex. A common method is to drive constantly, stopping only when no police are around.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
33.944125, -118.402426~Theme Building;
33.943431, -118.4091~Tom Bradley International Terminal;
33.930934, -118.411578~Jim Clutter Park (Imperial Hill);
33.953644, -118.39674~In-n-Out Burger;
33.935581, -118.377353~Proud Bird Restaurant;
33.931962, -118.405446~Flight Path Learning Center;
33.936771, -118.44262~Dockweiler State Beach;
33.949672, -118.395982~Vicksburg Avenue Bridge;
33.953769, -118.411776~Westchester Parkway Bridge
| zoom=13
| type=satellite
}}

==Regular Traffic==

In some cases, airlines operate their check-in counters in a different terminal; this table reflects the terminal where the aircraft park.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Terminal'''
|-
|Aeroflot Russian Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Aer Lingus
|A330-200
|2
|-
|Aeromexico
|737-800
|2
|-
|Air Canada
|767-300, 787-9, A319, A320, A321
|6
|-
|Air China
|777-300ER, 787-9
|TBIT
|-
|Air France
|777-200, 777-300ER, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Air New Zealand
|777-200, 777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Air Tahiti Nui
|787-9
|TBIT
|-
|Alaska Airlines
|737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, A321
|6
|-
|Alitalia
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Allegiant Air
|A319, A320
|5
|-
|All Nippon Airways
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|American Airlines
|737-800, 777-200, 777-300ER, 787-8, A319, A321
|4, 5
|-
|American Eagle
|CRJ-700 (SkyWest), CRJ-900 (Mesa), E175 (Compass)
|5 (Remote)
|-
|Asiana Airlines
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Austrian Airlines
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Avianca
|767-200, A319, A320, A321
|TBIT
|-
|Boutique Air
|PC-12
|6
|-
|British Airways
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Cathay Pacific Airways
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|China Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|China Eastern Airlines
|777-300ER, A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|China Southern Airlines
|777-300ER, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Copa Airlines
|737-800
|TBIT
|-
|Delta Air Lines
|717-200, 737-800, 737-900, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, 767-400ER, 777-200, A319, A320, A330-300
|2, 3
|-
|Delta Connection
|CRJ-700 (SkyWest), E175 (Compass, Republic, SkyWest)
|2, 3
|-
|El Al Israel Airlines
|777-200
|TBIT
|-
|Emirates Airline
|A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Ethiopian Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|EVA Air
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Fiji Airways
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Finnair
|A350-900
|TBIT
|-
|Frontier Airlines
|A319, A320
|5
|-
|Hainan Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|Hawaiian Airlines
|A321neo, A330-200
|5
|-
|Horizon Air
|Q400
|6
|-
|Iberia
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Japan Airlines
|777-300ER, 787-8
|TBIT
|-
|jetBlue Airways
|A320, A321
|5
|-
|KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
|787-10
|TBIT
|-
|Korean Air
|777-200, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|LATAM Airlines
|767-300, 787-8
|TBIT
|-
|LOT Polish Airlines
|787-8
|TBIT
|-
|Lufthansa
|A340-600, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Mokulele Airlines
|Cessna 208
|6
|-
|Philippine Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Qantas Airways
|787-9, A380-800
|TBIT
|-
|Qatar Airways
|777-200LR
|TBIT
|-
|Saudia
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Scandinavian Airlines
|A330-300
|TBIT
|-
|Sichuan Airlines
|A330-200
|TBIT
|-
|Singapore Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Southwest Airlines
|737-700, 737-800
|1, TBIT
|-
|Spirit Airlines
|A319, A320, A321
|5
|-
|Sun Country Airlines
|737-800
|5
|-
|Swiss International Air Lines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|Thomas Cook Airlines
|A330-200
|6
|-
|Turkish Airlines
|777-300ER
|TBIT
|-
|United Airlines
|737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, 757-200, 777-200, 787-9, A320
|7, 8
|-
|United Express
|CRJ-200 (SkyWest), CRJ-700 (SkyWest), E175 (SkyWest)
|7, 8
|-
|Virgin Atlantic Airways
|787-9
|2
|-
|Volaris
|A319, A320
|TBIT
|-
|WestJet Airlines
|737-600, 737-700, 737-800
|2
|-
|XL Airways France
|A330-200
|6
|}

===Cargo===

*AeroUnion (Airbus A300, Boeing 767-300)
*Air China Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*ABX Air Cargo/DHL (Boeing 767-200)
*Asiana Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Atlas Air (Boeing 747-400, Boeing 747-8)
*Cargolux (Boeing 747-400)
*Cathay Pacific Cargo (Boeing 747-8)
*China Airlines Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Emirates Sky Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*China Cargo Airlines (Boeing 777-200)
*EVA Air Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Kalitta Air (Boeing 747-200, Boeing 747-400)
*Korean Air Cargo (Boeing 747-8, Boeing 777-300)
*FedEx (Airbus A300-600, McDonnell Douglas MD-10, McDonnell Douglas MD-11, Boeing 767-300)
*Lufthansa Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*MAS Cargo (Boeing 767-300)
*Nippon Cargo Airlines (Boeing 747-8)
*Polar Air Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*Qatar Air Cargo (Boeing 777-300)
*Singapore Airlines Cargo (Boeing 747-400)
*United Parcel Service (Boeing 767-300)

==Facilities and Transportation==

The [http://www.metro.net Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transit Authority] operates several bus lines that serve LAX and the surrounding area. Consult their web site for specific information. They also operate the Metro Rail system, with service to LAX provided at the Green Line's Aviation/LAX station, where a free shuttle bus provides connections to the airport terminals.

San Diego International Airport

2021-03-16T22:44:00Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-705, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319-100, A321-200
*'''Air Transat''': 737-800, A321-200 (seasonal, begins June 15, 2020)
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A320-200, A321neo
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175LR
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100, A320-200
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A321-200
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700
*'''British Airways''': 787-9
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300ER, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (summer season only)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A321neo
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-10-27T03:38:51Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

San Diego International Airport

2019-10-27T03:37:22Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America including the Hawaiian Islands. In terms of international service, Air Canada Express, Air Canada Rouge, and WestJet operate to respective destinations that include Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary with Air Transat soon to be starting flights to Montreal. Swoop was supposed to begin service to Abbotsford and Edmonton, however, the grounding of the 737 MAX has affected previous plans to begin both flights in October 2019 so they have pushed back start-up to Summer 2020. Alaska, Southwest, and Sun Country (seasonally) operate the airport's only flights to Mexico: Puerto Vallarta (AS/WN) and San Jose Del Cabo (AS/SY/WN). British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental wide-body service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides seasonal wide-body service to Zurich during the summer.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27 and if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles. In addition, easterly winds known as "Santa Ana" winds will force runway 9 operations if strong enough; and conditions are usually clear which is rare for reverse operations. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-705, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319-100, A321-200
*'''Air Transat''': 737-800, A321-200 (seasonal, begins June 15, 2020)
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737-900ER, A319-100, A320-200, A321neo (summer seasonal)
**'''Horizon Air''': ERJ-175LR
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': ERJ-175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319-100
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': ERJ-175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700
*'''British Airways''': 747-400
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, A319-100, A320-200, A321-200, A330-300 (service only between 3/11/20 and 3/31/20)
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': ERJ-175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (summer season only)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo, A321-200
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (A321neo replaces A330-200 on HNL route beginning January 8, 2020)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320-200, A321-200
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8 (Currently Grounded)
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319-100, A320-200, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''Swoop''': 737-800 (Service delayed until Summer 2020)
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900ER, 737 MAX 9 (Currently Grounded), 757-200, A319-100, A320-200
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, ERJ-175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Atlas AIr/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s that are operated by Atlas Air are parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM. Occasionally, this flight will be operated by a 767-300F.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech Airliner 99 and the Fairchild Swearingen Metroliner to SAN in the early evening, with arrival times from El Centro, California between 5:00PM and 7:00PM and are on the ground for less than 40 minutes usually before departure back to Ontario, California.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by 767equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at in the early morning and at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the their mega hub in Louisville, Kentucky most weekday afternoons between 4:30PM and 5:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2019-10-15T05:13:17Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Air Transat''': 737-800, A320 (Starting Summer 2020)
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Embraer 175
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400 (winter season, becoming year round in 2020), 777-300ER (summer season 2019)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (summer season only)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (A321neo only beginning January 8, 2020)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, 757-200, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-03-28T03:43:09Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

===Passenger===
*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-135, ERJ-145 '''(Flights are currently Suspended)'''

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-03-12T04:48:49Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

===Passenger===
*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145 '''(Flights are currently suspended but the airline is expected to make a return in less then 90 days.)'''

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

San Diego International Airport

2019-03-12T04:44:33Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737 MAX 8
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-01-26T01:54:00Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

===Passenger===
*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145 '''(Flights are currently Suspended)'''

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-01-26T01:53:37Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

===Passenger===
*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145 '''(Flights are currently Suspended)'''

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2019-01-26T01:52:35Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

===Passenger===
*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145 (Flights are currently Suspended)

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

San Diego International Airport

2019-01-26T01:49:01Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-12-05T19:24:44Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300, A340-600 (A346 will come a few times at the end of 2018 and start of 2019, but then it will come three times a week after March 21, 2019)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

'''(Air France is planning to start service to SAN in 2020.)'''

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-12-05T19:20:52Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

'''Air France is planning to start service to SAN in 2020.'''

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-11-27T18:46:07Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Air France''': 777-300ER (Only on November 29, 2018 and December 4, 2018)
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300, A340-600 (A340-600 begins March 31, 2019)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-11-20T19:24:50Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Air France''': 777-300ER (Only on November 29,2018 and December 4,2018)
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300, A340-600 (A340-600 begins March 31, 2019)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-11-20T19:21:56Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

===W Palm St. Pedestrian Overpass===
This pedestrian bridge over the 5 freeway offers excellent side shots framed by the downtown skyscrapers during final approach and fair views of landing/taxing. The bridge is accessible from both Kettner Blvd and India St, street parking is available nearby and the Middletown trolley station across Kettner also offers affordable parking. Most of the bridge's length is covered by a 6-7 foot high grated fence, so to achieve the classic San Diego shot from the median with eight lanes of freeway traffic stretching arrow straight towards the cylindrical Four Points hotel you'll need a lens small enough to poke through the grating or a stepladder.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross;
32.733750, -117.173429~W Palm Street Pedestrian Overpass
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300, A340-600 (A340-600 begins March 31, 2019)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2018-11-10T20:19:10Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

*'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145

Business jets and general aviation aircraft fly in and out of the airport throughout the day.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

San Diego International Airport

2018-09-25T02:16:52Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Lufthansa provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Edelweiss provides summer seasonal service to Zurich. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Hawaii.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" with Mission Hills in the background nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego Bay in the background. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (seasonally alternates between the 747 and the 777)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (sporadically replaced by 767-300 as Hawaiian ramps up A321neo operations)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, 737 MAX 9, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originate in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

McClellan-Palomar Airport

2018-08-20T20:21:43Z

Flyer: /* Regular Traffic */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=McClellan-Palomar Airport|
location=Carlsbad, California|
iata=CLD|
icao=KCRQ|
aptype=Commercial|
website=http://www.sdcounty.ca.gov/dpw/airports/palomar.html|
mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=CRQ&ll=33.127740,-117.280405&spn=0.015245,0.029680&t=h&hl=en|
mapsource=Google Maps|
atctower=118.6 392.0|
atcground=121.8|
atcclearance=134.85|
atcapproach=127.3|
atcdeparture=127.3|
atcatis=120.15|
atcunicom=118.6}}

''This airport is also known by its FAA designator [[CRQ]], which is is the IATA code for Caravelas, Brazil.''

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Location===

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Base of the Tower===

At the base of the tower there is a clear view of the final approach, as well as a view of the General Aviation parking area and taxiway. To shoot from here you probably need at least a 300mm lens. There is a fence here so you have to either be tall, bring something to stand on, or shoot through a gap in the fence.

==Locations to Avoid==

===Location===

==Regular Traffic==

'''Passenger'''

'''California Pacific Airlines''': ERJ-145 (Starting November 1st, 2018)

Other aircraft will be business jets and general aviation aircraft.

==Facilities and Transportation==

[http://www.gonctd.com North County Transit District] provides bus service to McClellan-Palomar Airport via BREEZE bus routes 309 and 445.

San Diego International Airport

2018-03-21T00:00:22Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Edelweiss provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Zurich, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
**'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (Resumes March 25, 2018)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (Resumes March 30, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (Begins May 1, 2018)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (Begins March 24, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2018-02-19T05:47:44Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Edelweiss provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Zurich, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===
*'''Air Canada Express (Jazz)''': CRJ-700, CRJ-900
*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': Embraer 175
**'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''Allegiant Air''': A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, 757-200, A319, A320, A321
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 747-400, 777-300ER (Resumes March 25, 2018)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, A321neo, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (Resumes March 30, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200, A321neo (Begins May 1, 2018)
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (Begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''WestJet''': 737-600, 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-10-15T03:35:05Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Edelweiss provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Zurich, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (To Return on March 30, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800, 737-8 MAX
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-10-15T03:34:07Z

Flyer:

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Edelweiss provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Zurich, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (To Return on March 30, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-300, 737-700, 737-800
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-10-09T01:32:14Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Condor provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (To Return on March 30, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-300, 737-700, 737-800
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-09-20T00:45:54Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Condor provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Condor Airlines''': 767-300ER (ends October 5, 2017)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (To Return on May 8, 2018)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-300, 737-700, 737-800
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-09-12T06:11:39Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Condor provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Condor Airlines''': 767-300ER (Ends October 5, 2017)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300 (Ends September 18, 2017 but will continue service on May 8, 2017)
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-300, 737-700, 737-800
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

San Diego International Airport

2017-09-05T06:02:39Z

Flyer: /* Passenger */

{{categorybox|North America|United States|California}}

{{infobox|fullname=San Diego International Airport (Lindbergh Field)|location=San Diego, California|iata=SAN|icao=KSAN|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.san.org|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?ll=32.734801,-117.190175&spn=0.020131,0.038242&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=118.3 338.225|atcground=123.9|atcclearance=125.9|atcapproach=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcdeparture=119.6 (West) 124.35 (East)|atcatis=134.8 619-298-0997|atcunicom=122.95}}

San Diego International Airport is the primary commercial airport for San Diego County. No airline maintains a hub there, and Southwest Airlines is the dominant carrier, followed closely by Alaska Airlines. The vast majority of scheduled flights are to points within North America; currently British Airways, Japan Airlines, and Condor provide intercontinental service with flights to London-Heathrow, Tokyo-Narita, and Frankfurt, respectively. Hawaiian Airlines and Alaska Airlines also provide transoceanic service with flights to Honolulu.

The airport has only a single runway, 9/27, and normal operations call for arrivals and departures on runway 27. Runway 9 usage is uncommon. They will use runway 9 if the cloud ceilings are below 600 feet from airport elevation due to non-precision only approaches for runway 27. In addition, if the visibility is reduced to less than 1 1/2 miles, runway 9 will be used. Runway 9 has an operating ILS which can account for the lowered ceiling and visibility. Rarely will runway 9 be operated during clear days.

The airport is notable for its approach to runway 27, which due to the airport's close proximity to Downtown San Diego, allows spotters a view of many aircraft flying level to the roofs of the downtown skyscrapers.

==Official Spotting Locations==

===Harbor & Laurel Parking Lot===
[[Image:Nw320san-375nc.jpg|left|thumb|Northwest A320 on final approach to 27, photographed from the Harbor & Laurel lot at street level]]
The airport has a small free parking lot at the intersection of Harbor Dr. and Laurel St. for spotting. From here you will see aircraft arriving and departing on runway 27. You will need a ladder or tall vehicle to get camera lenses above the fence line for departure and taxi shots, though this may still be difficult as there is a second fence separating the shuttle bus access road from the ramp. However, you can photograph arrivals from street level with a long enough lens but you won't be able to get the "classic San Diego shot" nor the touchdown. Posted signs prohibit unattended vehicles. Avoid the adjacent Solar Turbines parking lot, but the sidewalk along Laurel St. should be okay. Lighting is best in the early afternoon, before 6:00, during summer. In the winter, light is typically good all day, though you may need to vary the angle of your shot as the sun moves across the sky. If you need a snack or drink, there is a convenience store at the Shell gas station located at the intersection of Laurel and Pacific Hwy (about a 5-10 minute walk).

{{jplink|8203370}} (final to runway 27, shot over the fence)
{{anetlink|964393}} (taxi to runway 27 on taxiway B, shot over the fence)

==Other Spotting Locations==

===El Prado, Balboa Park===
Exit the 5 and drive down Kettner Blvd, follow Kettner until you come to the Kettner and W Laurel St interesection, take a left on W Laurel and go up the big hill. Follow W Laurel until you get to 6th Ave. You can park on 6th Ave or continue straight and park on Balboa Dr. Walk along El Prado (Laurel turns into El Prado) until you get to the bridge. There is a sidewalk on the North and South side of the bridge. Take the South sidewalk. From the middle of the bridge you have an unobstructed view of the planes on final to runway 27 with the city in the background.

===NTC Park===
[[File:Southwest 73G SAN NTC.jpg|thumb|Southwest 737 climbing out from runway 27, photographed from NTC Park]]
[http://www.libertystation.com/yearround/ntcpark.html NTC Park] is located within the Liberty Station complex on the site of the former Naval Training Center. This facility is just west of the airport, and during normal operations with arrivals and departures on runway 27, departing aircraft fly overhead. Traditional side shots are tricky because most aircraft will be a bit high by the time they get to this area, but if you desire underside angles of departing aircraft, or just want to watch aircraft takeoff, this isn't a bad spot. It would likely be good during reverse operations with arrivals on runway 9, but as this typically happens during poor weather conditions, it still isn't amenable for photography. However, runway 9 may also be used when strong winds from the east, known as Santa Ana Winds, occur.

===Columbia Street and W Nutmeg Street===
You need a tall car or a tall ladder to reach this spot in order to go over the fence. It will give you spectacular shots of short finals with the San Diego bay. You can also get the touchdown. On the down side, this spot is not balanced (it is located on an incline plane part of the street) so getting level shots may be a challenge.

===Aladdin Parking Garage===
This garage has amazing opportunities for capturing landings and taxiing to the runway. Takeoffs are a bit of a challenge as they require a long lense and the presence of heat haze is inevitable. The parking garage is located adjacent to Laurel Parking lot, on the other side of Laurel street. However, they do catch you fairly quickly and ask you to move. Unlike the Laurel, the staff here aren't nearly as aggressive in moving you off the property. If you do plan to park here, be warned. The last time I checked, they charge daily, not hourly. This isn't the best spot if you want to spot for a good amount of time. I have not been to this spot in nearly a year and a half, so maybe things have changed. As for now, just assume you will get asked to leave fairly quickly.

===Rental Car Facility===
Located on the top floor of this massive structure, this spot provides breathtaking views of the bay as well as a clear view of the touchdown of aircraft. This was the premier spot until a sign was listed on top of the roof stating "employees only." From then on, spotters usually tended to avoid this area. No further spotting was noted after the sign was put up.

===Ivy St. and Albatross St.===
Pretty self-explanatory where this spot is located, within the intersection of these two streets. This point allows incredible up-close landing shots which would only require a fairly small lens. Great for overhead shots and with a long enough lens, around 150mm or so, you may be able to film the touchdown as well.

==Locations To Avoid==

===Solar Turbines Parking Lot===

This lot is next to the official observation area at Laurel St. and Harbor Dr. It is tempting because it gets you closer to the action than the official area. However, it is private property and Solar Turbines security does patrol the lot and has asked spotters to leave. If you stay on the public sidewalk outside the lot along Laurel Dr., you should be okay.

===Laurel Airport Parking===

This is the multi-story parking structure that aircraft fly over just before landing on runway 27. While tempting because of the possibility of down-the-runway views of the airport and belly shots of landing aircraft, there are signs posted that taking photos and videos are prohibited, and that they can have you arrested for trespassing for doing anything other than being actively engaged in the parking of vehicles.

==Spotting Locations Map==

{{#display_map:
32°43'53.2"N 117°09'17.9"W~El Prado, Balboa Park;
32.73339,-117.171553~Columbia St and W Nutmeg St;
32.7307,-117.1728~Aladdin Parking Garage;
32.7362,-117.2116~NTC Park;
32.7283,-117.1791~Laurel and Harbor Lot;
32.736631,-117.182220~Rental Car Facility;
32.728233,-117.165725~Ivy and Albatross
| zoom=14
| type=terrain
}}

==Regular Traffic==

Please note that all times listed in this section are approximate. Spotters visiting SAN may wish to consult the Flight Planner accessible at the San Diego International Airport website for exact and up-to-date information. Keep in mind also that many cargo flights do not operate a regular schedule on weekends or holidays.

===Passenger===

*'''Air Canada Rouge''': A319, A321
*'''Alaska Airlines''': 737-400, 737-700, 737-800, 737-900
**'''Horizon Air''': Q400
**'''SkyWest Airlines''': CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Allegiant Air''': Seasonal A319, MD-80
*'''American Airlines''': 737-800, A320, A321, occasionally an MD-80
**'''American Eagle (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''American Eagle (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200
*'''British Airways''': 777-300ER, to be replaced by the 747-400 in October of 2017
*'''Condor Airlines''': 767-300ER (Ending Service in Early October)
*'''Delta Air Lines''': 717, 737-800, 737-900ER, 757-200, 757-300, 767-300, A319, A320, MD-90
**'''Delta Connection (Compass Airlines)''': Embraer 175
**'''Delta Connection (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-900
*'''Edelweiss Air''': A340-300
*'''Frontier Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo, A321
*'''Hawaiian Airlines''': A330-200
*'''Japan Airlines''': 787-8
*'''JetBlue Airways''': A320, A321
*'''Lufthansa''': A340-300 (begins March 25, 2018)
*'''Southwest Airlines''': 737-300, 737-700, 737-800
*'''Spirit Airlines''': A319, A320, A320Neo
*'''Sun Country Airlines''': 737-700, 737-800
*'''United Airlines''': 737-800, 737-900, A319, A320, occasionally the 737-700 is used
**'''United Express (SkyWest Airlines)''': CRJ-200, CRJ-700, Embraer 175
*'''Virgin America Airlines''': A319, A320
*'''WestJet''': 737-700, 737-800

===Cargo===

*'''Airborne Express/DHL Cargo''': The 767-200s belonging to Airborne Express parked on the northside of the field have been nicknamed "the sleeping giant" by SAN spotters because they hardly ever seem to move. Many of the 767-200s on this flight are painted in full DHL colors. It typically arrives at approximately 7:00AM and departs to Phoenix, Arizona between 5:50PM and 7:00PM.

*'''Ameriflight''': Ameriflight operates the Beech 1900 and Beech Airliner 99 to SAN in the early evening, with arrivals usually coming between 6:00PM and 7:00PM.

*'''FedEx Express''': FedEx is the largest cargo carrier at SAN, with the longtime regular A300 and MD-10 flights largely replaced by the 757 and 767. Three flights usually arrive in the very early morning, before 6:00AM, and normally have all departed by 8:00AM. A second set of two flights typically arrives between 4:00PM and 6:30PM. These usually depart again between 7:00PM and 8:30PM. One of the Friday afternoon flights, typically arriving at approximately 5:00PM and departing after dark, and one of the Saturday morning flights, typically arriving at 5:30AM and departing between 7:00AM & 8:00PM, are usually operated by MD-10 equipment. MD-11's are still somewhat rare, but made some appearances during the 2015 Christmas season. The 757 only operates at night, so they are a bit hard to photograph. Fortunately, FedEx uses a 757 nearly every Tuesday in the summer that arrives in the afternoon, along with the majority of FedEx's fleet here.
**'''FedEx Feeder (Westair)''': A series of Cessna 208B Cargomaster flights arrive between 6:00PM and 7:00PM from El Centro supplying cargo for the larger FedEx aircraft flying out of SAN. They depart usually in the morning around 6:30AM to 9:00AM

*'''United Parcel Service (UPS)''': UPS operates two weekday flights on a somewhat variable schedule, generally using 767s. A morning flight usually arrives at approximately 5:00AM and departs around 6:30AM. A 767 arrives from the Hawaiian islands most weekday afternoons between 1:30PM and 3:30PM. Departures occur between 6:30AM and 7:30AM and in the evening between 7:30PM and 8:30PM. UPS does not operate on the weekends.

==Facilities and Transportation==

There is a [http://www.san.org/sdia/parking/cell-phone_lot.aspx "cell phone" parking lot] which offers up to one hour free parking for visitors waiting to pick up a passenger from an arriving flight, adjacent to the SAN Park Harbor Drive long term parking lot. Unlike the previous cell phone lot, it does offer views of the airport, however it is still not optimal for spotting as the paid long term parking lot is between this area and the taxiways. The cell phone lot has a couple of portable toilets and vending machines, along with monitors showing arriving flight information. However, if you're looking for video, this is the place to be (it will be even better if you bring a latter or stand on your car to fully see the touchdown as the spot is located abeam the threshold).

===Public Transportation===

San Diego Transit bus [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=992 Route 992], sometimes known as the Flyer, and [http://www.sdmts.com/mtscr/Route.aspx?r=923 Route 923A] provide service to the airport terminals. The lines originates in downtown San Diego, with several stops including one near the official observation lot at Laurel and Harbor. Connections to these routes can be made at various locations in downtown San Diego to other bus routes as well as the [http://www.sdmts.com/Trolley/Trolley.asp San Diego Trolley], [http://www.gonctd.com/coaster Coaster], and [http://www.amtrakcalifornia.com/index.cfm/routes/pacific-surfliner/ Amtrak Pacific Surfliner] trains.

User:Flyer

2017-09-05T03:56:41Z

Flyer: Created page with "My name is Hassan Kazmi and my callsign is Flyer. I am 13 yrs old and obviously I am not a licensed pilot yet. I have love, passion, and hobby for aviation. I've always wanted..."

My name is Hassan Kazmi and my callsign is Flyer. I am 13 yrs old and obviously I am not a licensed pilot yet. I have love, passion, and hobby for aviation. I've always wanted to become a pilot since I was 2 yrs old.