IT Outage Triggers Morning Delays at San Diego International Airport

Key points

• An IT outage at San Diego International Airport began around 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, impacting both terminals.
• The technical issue disrupted the ticketing process, leading to long wait times and crowded terminals for passengers.
• Airport officials confirmed that flights are still arriving and departing, but each airline is handling its own check-in process using iPads and paper tickets.
• The airport advised travelers to arrive early and check their flight status directly with their airline due to the delays.
• The cause of the IT issue is under investigation, and there is no estimated time for the system to be fully operational again.

Background

San Diego International Airport has experienced operational disruptions before, including a two-hour pause in arrivals and departures in September 2026 due to a drone and weather balloon sighting, which resulted in over 400 flight delays. This recent IT outage adds to a pattern of logistical challenges at the facility, though the current issue is distinct from security or airspace concerns.

How outlets are covering it

The California Post reported that the technical issue slowed the ticketing process, causing long lines and crowds, and noted that the airport posted an update on social media advising travelers to arrive early. 10News.com, citing KGTV, confirmed that the IT issue was discovered around 5:30 a.m. and is impacting both terminals. 10News.com also highlighted that passengers are being assisted with iPads and paper tickets, as each airline is handling its own check-in process. Both sources agree that the airport remains open and flights are continuing, but 10News.com provided more specific details on the workaround measures and the timing of the issue's discovery.

Why it matters

The IT outage at San Diego International Airport highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to technical failures, which can have immediate and significant impacts on travelers. The disruption to ticketing processes and the resulting delays underscore the importance of robust IT systems in maintaining efficient airport operations. For passengers, the incident serves as a reminder to plan for potential delays and to stay informed through direct communication with airlines. For the airport and airlines, the incident may prompt a review of contingency plans and IT resilience to prevent similar disruptions in the future.

What to watch

The cause of the IT issue is under investigation, and there is no estimated time for the system to be fully operational again. Passengers are advised to continue arriving early and checking their flight status directly with their airline. The airport and airlines may issue further updates as the situation evolves, and the investigation may lead to changes in IT infrastructure or contingency plans to prevent similar disruptions in the future.