User's Context in Favor of a Third Terminal at San Diego International Airport

There has been significant interest in the possibility of San Diego building and operating a third airport terminal, especially off-site. This interest was sparked by events such as the closure of Mira Mar Naval Air Station (NAS) and, in particular, the potential for integrating Denver's Denver International Airport (DIA) model. However, political will and feasibility remain major hurdles.

The Political Will and Public Support

There are clear reasons why San Diego might pursue a third terminal. The desire for growth and expansion is palpable. For instance, Denver's success with DIA has shown that a new terminal can significantly boost an airport's capacity and efficiency. Similarly, it was hoped that Mira Mar NAS's transition to military use might bring about a terminal expansion. However, political figures often lack the courage necessary to push these plans forward. Political inertia and the potential for local opposition from areas like La Jolla and Scripps Ranch are significant factors that can block such initiatives. The critical mass needed for such a project, including a major earthquake or a major aviation incident, is a stark reminder of the highly improbable nature of such proposals.

The Question of Location and Infrastructure

The location of a new terminal is a crucial variable. The San Diego International Airport (SDIA) currently boasts ten terminals, which makes it 10th on the list of the most extreme airports in the world according to the History Channel. The landing approach is over a densely populated area and must navigate the downtown S-curve, making it a unique and challenging airport. Attempts to repurpose Oceanside Municipal Airport as a regional airport were met with fierce opposition from the community, with thousands of homes slated for demolition to expand the airport.

The feasibility and likelihood of constructing a third terminal off-site are significantly influenced by both the logistical and political environment. The densely populated area surrounding the current airport complicates expansion efforts. Similarly, the wide-ranging opposition and the high cost of relocating residents and businesses would make such a project highly unappealing to policymakers. Furthermore, the risk of a terminal being used only for a short period or during emergency situations means that it would be economically unviable.

For the Future of San Diego Airports

Considering all these factors, it is unlikely that San Diego will construct a third airport terminal off-site in the near future. The infrastructure, political climate, and public support are all crucial components that, in this case, point towards continued challenges rather than real progress. Without major geological or aviation events, the argument for an off-site terminal is unlikely to gain traction.

However, ongoing discussions and studies regarding the viabilities and limitations of San Diego's aviation infrastructure will continue. As the region continues to grow and expand, these issues will remain central to discussions about airport capacity and efficiency. An off-site terminal may appear more feasible in the future, but for now, the resources and political will required to make it a reality are simply not there.

In conclusion, the idea of San Diego building and operating a third terminal off-site remains a distant dream given the current political and logistical challenges. While future scenarios could change, the immediate outlook does not suggest a high likelihood of such a development.