Alaska Airlines announced today that it is planning a major expansion to its Alaska Lounge network with the opening of a lounge at San Diego International Airport (SAN). The new lounge is a result of increased service from the Southern California airport for Alaska and, the recently acquired, Hawaiian Airlines.
Alaska is Opening a Lounge in San Diego
The new Alaska Lounge in San Diego is part of the airline’s multi-billion-dollar infrastructure investment designed to provide a “remarkable travel experience” for guests. The lounge will be one of the largest operated by any carrier at the airport, measuring at roughly 13,000 square feet.
Construction on the space is slated to begin in early 2027 and will be outfitted with the carrier’s signature lounge chairs, locally inspired food and beverages, a full bar featuring signature cocktails, and a barista station for handcrafted espresso beverages.
Todd Traynor-Corey, Vice President of Guest Products and Experience at Alaska Airlines, had this to say about the lounge expansion:
“Our Lounges are more than just a place for guests to wait for their next flight. They’re an extension of our signature hospitality and comfort that our guests experience each time they fly with us. With our new San Diego Lounge on the horizon, we’re shaping the future of travel with spaces designed to make travel feel seamless, elevated and welcoming.”
Kimberly Becker, President and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, added:
“We are very pleased to see Alaska continue to grow at SAN. Providing an exceptional customer experience at our airport is at the heart of our purpose. Alaska’s new lounge will offer travelers an enhanced option for dining and relaxing while experiencing all that our airport offers.”
San Diego is Lounge Overdue for an Alaska Lounge
The addition of an Alaska Lounge in San Diego should be welcome news to Alaska and Hawaiian frequent flyers. The airport is currently extremely cramped and the existing lounges in the Alaska terminal leave a lot to be desired.
Alaska Airlines passengers in San Diego currently use the Aspire Lounge. While the staff in the lounge are friendly and it has a great view of the airfield, this lounge is overcrowded, cramped, and long overdue for a refresh. Given the size of Alaska’s operation in San Diego, I’d argue that a new lounge space is long overdue.
Summary
Alaska Airlines has announced that it is opening a new lounge at San Diego International Airport (SAN). The lounge is expected to measure roughly 13,000 square feet and will feature the carrier’s signature amenities.
This should be welcome news for Alaska travelers passing through San Diego as the airport’s current lounge options leave a lot to be desired.