Urban Airport Walk

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 12, 2026

WE WILL NOW MEET AT 3:15; PLEASE ALLOW TIME FOR PARKING SO THAT WE CAN LEAVE AT 3:30.

PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR UPDATED MEETING PLACE AND PARKING INFORMATION.

Unfortunately, the San Diego Flyer won’t accommodate a group this large, so I’ve had to revise our plans.

There aren’t any good options for inexpensive parking near the new Terminal 1, so we will meet near Terminal 2 and take the free inter-terminal shuttle to Terminal 1 and back.

The walk to the shuttle stop is about 15 minutes; I recommend comfortable walking shoes and a hat.

TRANSIT is available; there is a bus stop next to our meeting spot at Spanish Landing West.

PARKING is inexpensive ($2.50 per hour at Spanish Landing; 4 hours maximum) or free (at the USS Recruit); directions below.

I’ve worked in the construction department at the airport since 2011.

We will get an “insider” look at the new Terminal 1, including interesting features, pre-security art, spectacular views, navigation tips, and checking out the current construction of the 11 gates that will ultimately connect the two terminals.

Back at Terminal 2 we will get to see an operating airfield in action and (if the timing works) get a very up-close look at the British Airways Boeing 777 as it taxis in to the gate. This is a group V (Roman Numeral 5) aircraft – it’s big, it’s loud, and it’s awesome.

(I’m retiring next year, so that will impact the opportunities I will have to get a group this close to the airfield fence.)

British Airways 273 is usually about 30 minutes early, but schedules are what is planned, and flights are what happens. There is a shaded spot where we can sit.
(https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/BAW265).

The video below shows a 777-300ER on short final and landing. It has a good view of the wheels as they contact the runway. (Check out the size compared to the cars on the ground; this thing is a beast.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZT8GuHpGok

Well-behaved children are welcome.

I look forward to sharing “my” airport with you!

NEW MEETING SPOT:
Spanish Landing West
4300 N Harbor Dr
San Diego, CA 92101

https://www.mapquest.com/us/california/spanish-landing-park-west-365121458

TRANSIT OPTION: there is a bus stop just outside of the entrance to Spanish Landing West across from the Hampton Inn (Lee Court/Spanish Landing West).

This location has shade and beautiful views to enjoy while we get ready for the tour. I’ll be near the tree that is just to the left as you come into the entrance.

PARKING OPTIONS:

AVOID THE HOTEL PARKING LOTS; THEY ARE CLOSELY MONITORED.

1. Spanish Landing West (Meeting Spot)

4300 N Harbor Dr
San Diego, CA 92101

2. Spanish Landing East (walk west along the water to our meeting spot);

3900 North Harbor Dr.
San Diego CA 92101

If you choose this option message the group and we will meet you at the corner of McCain and Harbor. The Shuttle spot is at McCain and Spruance.

3. Next to the USS Recruit in Liberty Station (near Ototo Sushi;

2558 Laning Rd
San Diego, CA 92106

Use the pedestrian bridge to cross over the water, then cross Harbor Blvd at the Hampton Inn (at Lee Court) to Spanish Landing West.)

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