SpottersWiki - User contributions [en]

San Francisco International Airport

2018-10-15T06:33:54Z

SD Guy: /* Spotting Locations Map */

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

San Francisco International Airport is an international airport located in Northern California. It is located 13 miles south of San Francisco near the cities of San Bruno and Millbrae. It is a hub for United Airlines and is their gateway to Asia. Virgin America is also based at SFO. It is the largest airport in Northern California and the second busiest airport in California, after [[Los Angeles International Airport]]. It features 4 runways, configured in pairs, perpendicularly.

{{infobox|fullname=San Francisco International Airport|location=San Francisco, California|iata=SFO|icao=KSFO|aptype=Commercial|website=http://www.flysfo.com|mapurl=http://maps.google.com/maps?q=SFO&ll=37.619534,-122.385035&spn=0.057675,0.118721&t=h&hl=en|mapsource=Google Maps|atctower=120.5 269.1|atcground=121.8|atcclearance=118.2|atcapproach=134.5 135.65 133.95|atcdeparture=120.9 (NW-E) 135.1 (SE-W)|atcatis=|atcunicom=122.95|psh=http://www.plane-spotting-hotels.com/index.php/plane-spotting-san-francisco/}}



==Official Spotting Locations==

There are currently no official spotting locations at SFO. The previous spotting locations at the approach end of RWY 01 was closed after 9/11, and the terminal observation decks were closed even before then.

However, the [http://www.flysfo.com/museum/aviation-museum-library San Francisco Airport Commission Aviation Library and Louis A. Turpen Aviation Museum] is within International Terminal A Side. It is open daily from 10am to 4:30pm except Saturday. Their collection is surprisingly extensive, though not all of it is on display. It's worth stopping in if you're there when it's open. Also, temporary rolling exhibitions exist security within the International Terminal as well as air-side Terminal 2 and 3. Public art from the San Francisco Arts Commission is on display throughout the terminals.

==Other Spotting Locations==

===Bayfront Park===

Bayfront Park is located at the end of Millbrae Ave. along Bayshore Hwy. It affords good views of all four runways, but it is somewhat distant (about one mile) from 10R/28L and 10L/28R, so you'll need a long lens for photos (about 700mm to get close to regional jets, 450mm should be good for the heavies). 1R/19L and 1R/19R are closer, however, a chain link fence was recently built next to the runways that limits photography.
{{anetlink|694555}} (1R departure, before the fence was built)
{{anetlink|950203}} (28L arrival)
{{anetlink|2760813}} (Another 28 arrival)

To reach the park, take the Millbrae Ave. exit off US-101, and head north-east, towards the bay. At the end of Millbrae Ave., make a right turn. You will see the park on your left; the first left turn you can make takes you into the park's small, free parking lot. The large, divided section of the lot is a pay lot for the Marriott Hotel. There is alternate free parking across the street at the Westin, though it is only a few spaces (turn into the Westin parking lot, and take an immediate left before the lobby circle). If all else fails, you can park nearly anywhere on the side-streets.

Once you have parked your car, you may want to walk towards the airport to the north end of the park for good views of 1L/19R and 1R/19L. If your objective is to watch 10R/28L and 10L/28R, you can go pretty much wherever you like in the park. If you want the San Francisco skyline in your photos, try walking south on the Bay Trail beyond the Marriott; at least 400mm (1.6x crop factor) will be required to get good skyline photos.

* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/3279660961/ San Francisco skyline photo with RWY 19 arrival]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/3264941872/ San Francisco skyline photo with RWY 28 arrival]

If you are traveling by BART or Caltrain, get off at Millbrae Station and walk east approximately one mile on Millbrae Ave (about 15 minutes walk). Use the south side of the street, as the north side has no sidewalk across the US-101 over-crossing; be cautious of traffic, this is not a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood.

===New Long Term Parking===

The new long term parking lot (operated by SFO) is near the north end of 10/28. It offers good side views of heavy departures off the 28's. As you will be facing southwest, the lighting is best in the morning. This location is a long distance from the rotation point, but heavy aircraft will be very close when they're putting their gear up. With good binoculars or telephoto, it also offers a good overview of the north side of the airfield, including the United maintenance hangars and the cargo ramp.

* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/295067941/ Air France A340 departing 28, from Long Term Parking]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/295069526/ NWA 757 departing 28, from Long Term Parking]

Although the roof is covered in security cameras, the turret-style stairway is notably lacking. Being chased away by security in this blind spot is rare. If you feel guilty, park in the lot and pay the fee -- it is only a few dollars for an afternoon.

If you are traveling by air or BART, go to the arrivals level at SFO and board a free SFO long term parking bus. They run at a five minute frequency and they will drop you off right where you need to be. Use the same bus to return.

===Cell Phone Lot===

The cell phone Lot is located near the new Long Term Parking garage and directly under the path for 28R. It is slightly closer to the runways, and it is free to park in. The only downside is that you must stay with your vehicle and you may only park there for an hour. Here are the official rules for [http://www.flysfo.com/to-from/parking/cell-phone-waiting-lot/ the cell phone lot]. You will not be able to see airport operations from here, due to the fact that it is not raised like the long term parking garage. You will, though, be able to get good shots of aircraft just after rotation, as they are putting their gear up. If the Shoreline Seven departure is in use, aircraft will make a sharp right turn over the lot and it will make for good photos. 200mm with a 1.6x crop factor will be sufficient for this spot.

* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/121119895@N06/18586234326/in/album-72157651930709243/ A Delta 737 making a sharp turn off of 28R, from Cell Phone Lot]
* [https://www.flickr.com/photos/121119895@N06/17991903833/in/album-72157651930709243/ A Virgin Atlantic 747 making a straight out departure, from Cell Phone Lot]

===San Bruno Ave Overpass===

Between McDonnell Road and San Bruno Ave, immediately east of US-101, there is a small grassy area that is well-positioned at the end of 10L/28R. This is the longest runway at SFO, so in good weather, it is the first choice for departing large aircraft. When 28R is in use, aircraft will pass very low above this spot; when 10L is in use (generally only in marginal weather), this spot has a good view of aircraft as they wait for the runway. Runway 28L/10R is also visible, but is significantly obstructed by the rental car facility and the end of AirTrain.

Unfortunately this location is almost nearly spoiled for the good photography because of numerous fences and light poles. You can still get some good shots, with effort. Note that because there is a lot of traffic in this area, you will be seeing through a lot of jetwash. Anything more than about 500mm will be useless because of air quality.

* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2132591716/ JAL 747 departing 28L shortly after rotation, from San Bruno Ave]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/exxonvaldez/2716419890/ Light trails of departures from the RWY 28's]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2131825267/ Closeup of JAL 747 departing 28L from San Bruno Ave]
* [http://www.flickr.com/photos/midendian/2221488237/ Various aircraft waiting for 10, from San Bruno Ave]

If you are traveling by car, take US-101 to the San Bruno Ave exit, go west of the freeway, and park on the street in the residential neighborhood, then walk over the freeway.

If you are arriving by air or BART, take the free SFO long term parking bus from the arrivals (upper) level at SFO, get off at long term parking (see above), and walk south on Airport Blvd to San Bruno Ave, then west to the freeway overpass (overall about 15 minutes). Alternatively, take AirTrain (Blue line) to the rental car center and walk north to the overpass (see map); this path is seemingly easier but takes just as long as long term parking due to various fences you have to walk around. On the upside, you get to see the Internation G and cargo ramps from AirTrain.

===Within the airport===

Various locations within the airport, but outside security, offer reasonable views:

'''Parking Garage G''' -- 28 departures, and some ramp / taxiway A views. Take AirTrain to Garage G/BART and take the elevator up to parking level 9. You will not have warning of RWY 28 departures, but you will be able to see them just after rotation -- bring a radio! {{anetlink|2747465}}

'''Parking Garage A''' -- Good shots of the west ramp of International Terminal A {{anetlink|2675995}}

''' AirTrain station at the rental car facility (blue line)''' -- Very good views of runway 10 arrivals on bad weather days; however the windows are often very dirty.

'''AirTrain approaching terminal 1''' -- View of aircraft at the International A gates (Qantas, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, Emirates, etc).

'''AirTrain Blue Line, between International G and West Field Road''' -- Views toward International G / United gates, and some parts of the cargo ramp (DHL, FedEx).

'''Terminal 2 Air Train stop''' -- Good rotation shots of the 28s, although there will be no warning-bring a scanner. At each end of the stop there is an opening so you do not have to shoot through glass. The opening on the north side of the station gives good shots of rotation and the SFO water towers. The south side will give shots of the thresholds of the 28s (with a long lens), the beginning of the 1s, and Terminal 2 ramp shots. {{anetlink|2739252}} {{anetlink|2416532}}

===Fisherman's Park===
Fisherman's Park is a small area on the coast of the bay under the 28 approach path. The so-called "park" is really a gravel parking lot with small area by the water, used regularly by fishermen. This location is very similar to the popular Coyote Point Recreation Area location; the only differences being it is slightly closer to the threshold, but slightly farther south of the approach path. It is located on Airport Blvd. in Burlingame. A 400mm lens (full frame) will be more than sufficient for heavies, but a longer lens is needed for regionals. It is not the best area at mid-day times, due to the fact that you are shooting above you, but mornings and afternoons will yield great photos.

==Locations to Avoid==

Obviously, do not loiter on streets within the airport grounds -- you will be stopped and questioned. Occasionally police may interfere at San Bruno Ave and Garage G, but it has never been severe. Also some reports of being harassed in the Signature FBO area, even if you have real business there. Be discreet.

==Spotting Locations Map==

<display_map>
37.605265,-122.376661~Bayfront Park
37.635894,-122.400111~New Long Term Parking
37.631529,-122.401141~San Bruno Ave Overpass
37.616748, -122.384576~Terminal 2 Air Train Stop
37.633222,-122.400178~Cell Phone Lot
37.613781, -122.391982~Garage A
37.615855, -122.392617~Garage G/BART
37.628242, -122.401189~Rental Car Facility
37.591958, -122.334662~Fisherman's Park
</display_map>

==Regular Traffic==
Normal traffic flow has most departures using runways 1L/1R and arrivals using 28L/28R. European and trans-Pacific depart 28L/28R.

During times of winds out of the south or southeast, arrivals use 19R while departures use 10L/10R. When the crosswind component for 10L/R exceeds 20kts, departures use 19L/R. This is most often during rainy winter weather, but also occurs on the day just after rainy weather.

Occasionally during strong northerly winds, aircraft will fly the approach to 28L/R and circle to 1R. This happens approximately twice a year, so don't hold out hope.

===International Terminal A===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|Aeroméxico
|Boeing 737-800
|[[Mexico City Airport]], [[Guadalajara Airport]]
|-
|Air Canada
|Airbus A319/A320, Boeing 767-300
|[[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]]
|-
|Air Canada Rouge
|Airbus A319
|[[Vancouver International Airport]]
|-
|Air France
|Airbus A380-800 (seasonal), Boeing 777-200/300 (seasonal)
|[[Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport]]
|-
|Alaska Airlines
|Boeing 737-400, Boeing 737-700, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-900
|[[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Palm Springs International Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport]]
|-
|Asiana Airlines
|Boeing 777-200
|[[Incheon International Airport]]
|-
|Avianca
|Airbus A319/A320
|[[El Salvador Intl.]]
|-
|British Airways
|Airbus A380-800, Boeing 777-200
|[[London Heathrow Airport]]
|-
|Cathay Pacific
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Hong Kong Airport]]
|-
|China Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]
|-
|China Eastern
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Shanghai Airport]]
|-
|China Southern
|Boeing 787-8
|[[Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport]]
|-
|Emirates
|Airbus A380-800
|[[Dubai International Airport]]
|-
|Etihad Airways
|Boeing 777-200
|Abu Dhabi
|-
|Fiji Airways
|Airbus A330-200
|Nadi International Airport
|-
|Hawaiian Airlines
|Airbus A330-200
|[[Honolulu International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]]
|-
|Hong Kong Airlines
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Hong Kong Airport]]
|-
|Iberia
|Airbus A330-200
|[[Madrid Barajas Airport]]
|-
|Japan Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Tokyo Haneda Airport]]
|-
|jetBlue
|Airbus A320, Airbus A321
|[[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Long Beach Airport]], [[McCarran International Airport]], [[Logan International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]]
|-
|KLM
|Boeing 747-400, Boeing 777-300, Boeing 787-9
|[[Amsterdam Schiphol Airport]]
|-
|Korean Air
|Boeing 747-8i
|[[Incheon International Airport]]
|-
|Philippine Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Ninoy Aquino International Airport]]
|-
|Qantas
|Boeing 747-400
|[[Sydney Airport]]
|-
|Sun Country Airlines
|Boeing 737-800
|[[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]]
|-
|Virgin Atlantic
|Boeing 787-9, Airbus A340-600, Airbus A330-300
|[[London Heathrow Airport]], [[Manchester Airport]]
|-
|WestJet
|Boeing 737-800
|[[Vancouver International Airport]], [[Calgary International Airport]]
|-
|WOW Air
|Airbus A330-300
|[[Keflavik International Airport]]
|-
|XL Airways France
|Airbus A330-200
|[[Paris Charles de Gaulle International Airport]](Seasonal)
|}

===Terminal 1===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|Delta Air Lines
|Boeing 737-800, Boeing 757-200, Boeing 757-300, Boeing 767-300, Airbus A320
|[[Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport]], [[Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport]], [[Detroit Metro Airport]], [[Honolulu International Airport]], [[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Salt Lake City International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]],
|-
|Frontier
|Airbus A319, Airbus A320
|[[Chicago O'Hare International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[McCarran International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]]
|-
|Southwest Airlines
|Boeing 737-700, Boeing 737-800
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Bob Hope Airport]], [[John Wayne-Orange County Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[McCarran International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], [[Dallas Love Field Airport]], [[Lambert-St. Louis International Airport]], [[Chicago Midway International Airport]], [[Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport]]
|}

===Terminal 2===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|American Airlines
|Airbus A321, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 767-300
|[[Charlotte Douglas International Airport]], [[Chicago O'Hare International Airport]], [[Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport]], [[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[Miami International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[Philadelphia International Airport]], [[Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport]]
|-
|Virgin America
|Airbus A319, Airbus A320
|[[Los Angeles International Airport]], [[San Diego International Airport]], [[Seattle-Tacoma International Airport]], [[Portland International Airport]], [[Honolulu International Airport]], [[Kahului Airport]], [[McCarran International Airport]], [[Los Cabos International Airport]], [[Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport]], [[Cancún International Airport]], [[Austin Bergstrom International Airport]], [[Dallas Love Field Airport]], [[Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport]], [[Chicago O'Hare International Airport]], [[Washington Dulles International Airport]], [[Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport]], [[Logan International Airport]], [[New York John F. Kennedy International Airport]], [[New York La Guardia Airport]], [[Newark Liberty International Airport]], [[Denver International Airport]], ¹[[Palm Springs International Airport]]

¹Seasonal Service

|}

===Terminal 3===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|United Airlines
|Airbus A319, Airbus A320, Boeing 737-700, Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-900, Boeing 747-400, Boeing 757-200, Boeing 757-300, Boeing 767-400, Boeing 777-200, Boeing 787-8, United 787-9
|https://www.united.com/CMS/Documents/pdfs/route-maps/UAL_NA_Map_2016_03_01.pdf
|}

===International Terminal G===

{| class="wikitable"
|-
|'''Airline'''
|'''Aircraft'''
|'''Destinations'''
|-
|Aer Lingus
|Airbus A330-200
|[[Dublin Airport]]
|-
|Air Canada
|Airbus A319/A320, Boeing 767-300, Embraer 190
|[[Toronto Pearson International Airport]], [[Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport]]
|-
|Air China
|Boeing 747-8i
|[[Beijing Capital Airport]]
|-
|Air India
|Boeing 777-200
|Indira Gandhi International Airport
|-
|Air New Zealand
|Boeing 777-200/777-300
|[[Auckland Airport]]
|-
|ANA
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Tokyo Narita Airport]]
|-
|Copa Airlines
|Boeing 737-800
|[[Tocumen Intl.]]
|-
|EVA Air
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport]]
|-
|Lufthansa
|Airbus A380-800, Airbus A340-600
|[[Frankfurt Main Airport]], [[Munich Airport]]
|-
|SAS
|Airbus A340-300
|[[Copenhagen Kastrup Airport]]
|-
|Singapore Airlines
|Airbus A350-900
|[[Singapore Changi Airport]]
|-
|Swiss
|Airbus A340-300
|[[Zurich Airport]]
|-
|Turkish Airlines
|Boeing 777-300
|[[Atatürk International Airport]]
|-
|United Airlines
|Airbus A320, Boeing 747-400, Boeing 767-300, Boeing 777-200, Boeing 787-8, Boeing 787-9
|https://www.united.com/CMS/Documents/pdfs/route-maps/UAL_WORLD_Map_2016_03_01.pdf
|}

*Routes as of January 1, 2016

==Facilities and Transportation==

===Public Transportation===

The [http://www.bart.gov BART] rapid transit rail system maintains a station at the terminals, and provides service to San Francisco and cities in the East Bay. It also provides connections to [http://www.caltrain.com/ Caltrain] commuter rail service to San Jose and Gilroy via the Millbrae Station.

Three [http://www.samtrans.org samTrans] bus routes serve the airport terminals. Route 292 serves a route from San Mateo to downtown San Francisco. Route 397 and Express Route KX serve a route from Palo Alto to downtown San Francisco.

The [http://www.airportexpressinc.com/home.html Airport Express] provides transportation to Sonoma County, including Petaluma, Rohnert Park, and Santa Rosa.

The [http://www.marinairporter.com/ Marin Airporter] provides transportation to multiple locations in Marin County including San Rafael, Mill Valley, and Sausalito.

==External Links==

*[http://flightaware.com/live/airport/KSFO SFO on FlightAware]
*[https://www.flightradar24.com/37.62,-122.37/8 SFO on FlightRadar24]

San Diego International Airport

2018-10-15T05:58:41Z

SD Guy: /* Spotting Locations Map */

{{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, 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, 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

2018-10-15T05:57:22Z

SD Guy: /* Spotting Locations Map */

{{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;
32.733777, -117.173387~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, 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, 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

2018-10-15T05:55:43Z

SD Guy: /* Other Spotting Locations */

{{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
| 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, 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.