This post is about an airport, Not terribly exciting, but something most of us can identify with…and perhaps not with fond feelings. Having experienced the issues associated with increased security, delayed and canceled flights, and all the other “joys” of air travel, the word AIRPORT probably dredges up some rather unpleasant emotions.
There are two reasons for writing this:
- General information that may be useful to travelers coming in and out of our airport…Lindberg Field (we get millions of tourists each year so listen in).
- Perhaps more importantly, for those of you who are BUYERS relocating to the area, the San Diego International Airport is the gateway to your new home.
I do lots of work with folks who are relocating to America’s Finest City, as we are called. For those who live here in San Diego, there is no doubt this moniker fits. If you don’t yet live here, well, you will find out why we have this name. As a Carlsbad REALTOR working with lots of people who are coming here to look at housing in anticipation of their move to San Diego’s North County, I find that many are flying in for their house hunting trips, so the airport really IS a significant part of their house hunting journey.
Located along San Diego Bay, our airport is, compared to some I have known, easy to get to, and get in and out of; you are just a few minutes off the 5 freeway and signage is pretty good for those who are out of the area (if you need to head north or south, just exit the airport and follow signs for the 5). Parking is inexpensive, at least compared to some cities. There are a number of long-term parking lots with shuttle services – I like the one past Terminal Two on the right. Shuttles for rental cars are right outside baggage claim on the main floor of the terminals; rental car lots are just a few minutes away.
If you are flying in you won’t need to worry about this, but one thing to know about with regard to parking is the Express Parking Machines. Yep, you can pay the old fashioned way, but it is generally faster to use these machines. When you park, take your ticket with you. Then, when you leave, go to one of the machine, put in the ticket, pay the amount owed, and then take back your ticket. You can use the Express Exit just by inserting your ticket.
One cool thing to know about is the Cell Phone lot for those of you picking up passengers (the lot is before you reach the Commuter Terminal, the first of the terminals on the right). You can park, for free in a lot with ready access to the pick-up areas, so your party can call you on your cell when they are ready, and you don’t have to circle the airport repeatedly (the police are pretty tough about parking at the pick-up and drop-off areas).
There are two terminals plus the Commuter Terminal. Terminal One is Alaska, Southwest and United; Terminal Two has the other major carriers. Here’s the full list.
As a point of reference for folks flying in for house hunting, you can expect to get your luggage in about 15 - 20 minutes, more or less (but don’t expect it immediately – it won’t happen, in my experience). Rental car pick-up can take about 30 minutes or more from when you start the wait until you are in your car. Once you are on your way, Carlsbad is about 35-40 minutes in non-rush hour traffic. You can expect, at rush hour, traffic back-ups on the 5 in La Jolla, but especially from Carmel Valley (north of La Jolla) until you are past Solana Beach. Rush hour will take 1 hour most likely from airport to Carlsbad.
Good luck on your trip flying in to San Diego.
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If I can provide more information about the area or the housing market in general, or otherwise assist you in your homes search, please contact me by phone or text at (760) 840-1360
or email me at JDowler@remax.net.
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