Dense fog prompted the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to implement a ground stop at San Diego International Airport early Monday morning, resulting in numerous flight delays and cancellations. The ground stop, initiated at 7:58 a.m., was necessary due to low visibility conditions caused by the fog and is expected to remain in effect until at least 9:15 a.m.
As of Monday morning, over 65 flights were delayed, and at least two were canceled, according to FlightAware. Southwest Airlines experienced the most significant impact, but multiple carriers reported delays as well.
Travelers at San Diego International Airport are advised to arrive at least two hours before their flights to account for longer security lines triggered by increased measures. Curbside parking is prohibited, with vehicles left unattended subject to ticketing and towing.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, passengers are reminded to have their tickets and IDs ready for security checks. Those without physical tickets must present printed proof of their ticket purchases, which can include itineraries or check-in at ticket counters.
In the event of delays or cancellations, the Department of Transportation mandates that airlines provide timely information regarding the status of flights. For flights set to depart within seven days, airlines need to issue status updates within 30 minutes of notification of a delay or change. Travelers can use the San Diego International Airport’s Flight Status page or FlightAware to track the status of their flights in real time.
The Department of Transportation also offers a dashboard that indicates which services airlines provide to alleviate inconveniences during cancellations or delays. A green check mark signifies service availability, while a red “x” indicates that the airline may or may not provide such services at their discretion.
In light of these challenges, passengers are encouraged to remain informed and proactive during their travel plans and to utilize available resources for the latest updates.