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Airport TSA Lines

Hello, what are the TSA lines like at San Diego Airport since the shutdown. Specifically terminal one. Thank you.

Since the recent TSA and airport staffing changes, lines at San Diego International Airport (SAN), especially in Terminal 1, have been fluctuating. Terminal 1 mainly handles Southwest Airlines and some other domestic carriers. Travelers have reported varying wait times, but there are some general trends you can expect.

Here’s a detailed overview:

  • Peak Times: Morning flights (5:30 AM – 9:00 AM) and early evening flights (4:30 PM – 7:30 PM) tend to have the longest lines. Expect extra wait time if you’re flying during these periods.
  • Off-Peak Times: Midday (10:00 AM – 3:30 PM) is usually quieter, with shorter lines. This is often the best time for travelers who want a faster security experience.
  • TSA PreCheck: If you have TSA PreCheck, you will see significantly shorter lines, even during busier periods. This is strongly recommended for Terminal 1 travelers if possible.
  • Line Fluctuations: Staffing shortages or delayed flights can cause sudden backups. TSA sometimes opens additional lanes to accommodate surges, but there may still be slowdowns.
  • Expected Wait Times: Based on recent traveler reports:
    • Without TSA PreCheck: 20–45 minutes, occasionally up to an hour during morning peaks.
    • With TSA PreCheck: 5–15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Additional tips for navigating Terminal 1 security efficiently:

  • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights; during holiday or high-traffic periods, allow extra time.
  • Have your ID and boarding pass ready to speed up the process.
  • Use the designated mobile or bag-check drop-off counters if available to save time.
  • Check the airport’s official app or website for live security line updates; SAN provides near real-time wait times.
  • Consider flying early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid peak congestion.

In summary, Terminal 1 TSA lines are manageable but can fluctuate, especially during morning and evening peaks. TSA PreCheck users generally experience minimal delays, while standard travelers should plan for 20–45 minutes and monitor real-time updates to adjust timing if possible.

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