Frequently Asked Questions
What is Destination Lindbergh?
The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, City of San Diego and SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) launched a 10-month process in the spring of 2008 to develop long range actions for optimizing San Diego International Airport at Lindbergh Field, while improving the efficiency of how airport patrons access the airport. Collectively, the community will answer the question, “What is the ultimate build-out for Lindbergh?” addressing transportation linkages, economic benefits and community interest.
The Airport Authority, City of San Diego and SANDAG are taking an in-depth approach to community engagement to help shape the vision for what will eventually become the transportation hub for the region. These agencies are leading the effort with guidance from a nationally-recognized team of aviation and vision experts to help San Diego County solve the region’s air and ground transportation challenges.
A final concept will be developed and presented to all stakeholders by February 2009.
What is the goal of Destination Lindbergh?
It’s about answering the question, “What is the ultimate build-out for Lindbergh?” Analysis will consider validating future air travel demand, determining the optimum development of aviation facilities (terminal, runway and taxiway configurations) and surrounding land uses (added parking, consolidated rental car facility and other revenue generating facilities). The process will also contemplate integrating multiple modes of transportation including rail, transit and auto that might include an intermodal transportation center. The goal is to make sure San Diego International Airport continues to be an economic engine for the region, as well as a safe, convenient, efficient and beautiful gateway to the world.
Who is involved in Destination Lindbergh?
An alliance of the Airport Authority, City of San Diego and SANDAG (San Diego Association of Governments) is leading the effort. Other key stakeholders include aviation, transportation, economic, advanced technology, manufacturing, education, tourism, and military representatives on behalf of local, regional, state and federal entities. Specific agencies that are involved in the process include the San Diego Unified Port District, Metropolitan Transit System, North County Transit District, Department of Defense, the Federal Aviation Administration, Federal Highway Administration, Caltrans and others. Ultimately, a region-wide civic dialogue will be used to develop a feasible, visionary concept. This broad-ranging cooperative effort is unprecedented.
How did Destination Lindbergh begin?
Following the November 2006 election and seating of the new Airport Authority Board in January 2007, the Airport Authority has been committed to optimizing the existing airport to meet future demand. With the planning phase for short-term improvements at the airport nearing completion, the Authority is shifting its focus to the long-term and how it will optimize this important asset for future generations.
Who is funding Destination Lindbergh?
The process is being funded by the Airport Authority, which does not receive any funding from local tax dollars. Airport users (i.e., airlines, tenants and passengers) pay user fees, which fund much of the airport’s operations. Airport improvements can also be funded by bonds, grants and other sources. The Airport Authority, City of San Diego and SANDAG are also contributing to the study by providing staff.
Will MCRD land be considered?
We are working closely with the Marine Corps as part of the Destination Lindbergh process. While no land is currently available from MCRD, policy direction has been given to look at all the options for land surrounding the airport.
Will Destination Lindbergh address traffic around the airport?
The Airport Authority is working closely with our partner agencies – the City of San Diego, SANDAG and Caltrans – to analyze and recommend improvements for local streets and access on and off of I-5.
When would construction begin? When would new facilities open?
There are significant milestones that need to be reached before any construction could proceed. We must first reach an agreement on a plan and phasing, conduct environmental studies and determine funding sources.
When are the Destination Lindbergh meetings? Is there a public comment period?
The Destination Lindbergh meetings are open to the public and time is allotted for public comment. A meeting schedule can be viewed here.
How can I provide input or share my opinion?
Send an e-mail to destination@san.org and the planning team will respond to you.
Could the slowing economy negate the need for future airport improvements?
The Airport Authority is well aware of the turmoil and uncertainty in the airline industry. We are also aware of the potential impacts on us. However, industry experts don’t see the downturn as permanent, even though it may be of unprecedented magnitude and likely to last longer than past downturns.
Long-term, we must be proactive in planning for the industry’s next inevitable growth phase. However, we will only initiate construction based on activity levels and the demonstrated need for such improvements.
It takes years to plan and design significant airport improvements. San Diego needs to be ready for the time when market conditions improve.
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