The San Francisco to San Diego route connects San Francisco International Airport (SFO) in US with San Diego International Airport (SAN) in US. This short-haul flight covers approximately 447 miles (719 km) with a typical flight time of 1h 9m. This route is served by 9 airlines: SkyWest, Southwest, United and others. AirportRoutes has tracked 21 daily flights on this route.
The San Francisco (SFO) to San Diego (SAN) flight route is a popular choice for both domestic and international travelers looking to experience California's diverse offerings. Covering a distance of 447 miles (719 km), the flight typically takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a convenient way to travel between these two major Californian cities. With approximately 163 weekly flights operated by 7 different airlines, passengers have a wide array of options to suit their schedules and budgets. This route is favored for its efficiency, connecting the tech hub of the Bay Area with the relaxed vibes of Southern California.
For the best deals, book your flight well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Consider flying mid-week (Tuesday, Wednesday) for potentially lower fares. At San Francisco International Airport (SFO), allow ample time for security, particularly in Terminal 2 and 3. San Diego International Airport (SAN) is relatively smaller, making navigation easier. Expect clear skies and smooth flights, though occasional turbulence can occur. Pack light to avoid baggage fees, and utilize mobile check-in for a smoother airport experience.
San Diego offers a diverse range of attractions, from its beautiful beaches to its vibrant downtown. Balboa Park, home to numerous museums, gardens, and the famous San Diego Zoo, is a must-visit. Explore the historic Gaslamp Quarter with its Victorian architecture and lively nightlife. Relax on the shores of Coronado Beach or La Jolla Cove, known for its stunning scenery and marine life. Don't miss out on trying San Diego's famous fish tacos and craft beers. Areas like Pacific Beach and Mission Beach are perfect for a classic California beach experience.
The best time to fly to San Diego is generally during the spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is peak season, with higher prices and crowded attractions. Winter (November-March) offers mild temperatures but can be cooler, especially in the evenings. Look for deals in February and November, excluding Thanksgiving week. Comic-Con in July significantly impacts hotel and flight prices, so plan accordingly.
San Francisco International Airport
KSFOSFOSan Diego International Airport
KSANSAN9
Operators21
Daily Flights447
Miles1h 9m
Flight Duration
| Airline | ICAO | IATA |
|---|---|---|
| SkyWest |
SKW
|
OO
|
| Southwest |
SWA
|
WN
|
| United |
UAL
|
UA
|
| Horizon |
QXE
|
QX
|
| PenAir |
NLA
|
-
|
| Frontier |
FFT
|
F9
|
| Alaska Airlines |
ASA
|
AS
|
| NetJets Aviation |
EJA
|
1I
|
| Delta Air Lines |
DAL
|
DL
|
| Day | Flights Observed | Frequency | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 25 | 12% |
|
| Tuesday | 40 | 19% |
|
| Wednesday | 27 | 13% |
|
| Thursday | 44 | 20% |
|
| Friday | 21 | 10% |
|
| Saturday | 37 | 17% |
|
| Sunday | 21 | 10% |
|
Pattern Analysis
| Airline | Flight Numbers | Aircraft Type | Typical Time | Days Active | Last Seen | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Alaska Airlines
ASA
/ AS
|
- | B738 | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Oct 28, 2025 | Active |
|
Delta Air Lines
DAL
/ DL
|
- | B752 | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jul 28, 2025 | Active |
|
Frontier
FFT
/ F9
|
FFT4306 | A21N | 14:13 2:13 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 2, 2026 | Active |
|
Horizon
QXE
/ QX
|
QXE2143 QXE2181 QXE2429 QXE2479 QXE2460 | E75L | 18:43 6:43 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 1, 2026 | Active |
|
NetJets Aviation
EJA
/ 1I
|
EJA764 EJA873 | C700 | 19:00 7:00 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Dec 9, 2025 | Active |
|
PenAir
NLA
|
- | E75L | - |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Oct 2, 2025 | Active |
|
SkyWest
SKW
/ OO
|
SKW3490 SKW3327 SKW3310 SKW3376 | E75L | 10:12 10:12 AM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 5, 2026 | Active |
|
Southwest
SWA
/ WN
|
SWA957 SWA3514 SWA2632 SWA4008 SWA4241 | B737 | 17:50 5:50 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Feb 3, 2026 | Active |
|
United
UAL
/ UA
|
UAL1434 UAL1483 | B39M | 17:05 5:05 PM (Representative) |
M
T
W
T
F
S
S
|
Jan 17, 2026 | Active |
Time Information
Times are shown in the departure airport's local timezone (KSFO - America/Los_Angeles).