SEATTLE- Alaska Airlines (AS) is marking 40 years in San Diego with its 50th nonstop destination from San Diego International Airport (SAN), launching seasonal service to Loreto International Airport (LTO) in Mexico.
The new San Diego-Loreto route begins December 19, 2026, making Alaska Airlines the only carrier offering nonstop flights between the two destinations. Service will operate twice weekly through April 28, 2027.
Alaska Airlines Expands San Diego Network With Loreto
Alaska Airlines will launch seasonal nonstop flights between San Diego and Loreto as part of its continued expansion in the Mexican market. The new route gives Southern California travelers direct access to Loreto, a coastal destination in Baja California Sur known for beaches, outdoor activities and access to the Sea of Cortez.
The route represents a major milestone for Alaska Airlines in San Diego. With Loreto added to its schedule, the carrier will reach 50 nonstop destinations from the airport, more than any other airline serving San Diego.
Alaska Airlines will be the only airline connecting San Diego and Loreto with nonstop flights when the service begins.
Darren Scott, Managing Director of Network at Alaska Airlines, said the launch of the 50th nonstop destination is a significant part of the airline’s 40th anniversary celebration in San Diego. He also highlighted Alaska’s position as the leading carrier serving Mexico from the market.
San Diego-Loreto Flight Schedule
The new service will operate on a seasonal basis from December 19, 2026, through April 28, 2027.
| Route | Start Date | Seasonal End | Frequency | Aircraft |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Diego (SAN) to Loreto (LTO) | Dec. 19, 2026 | Apr. 28, 2027 | 2x weekly, Wed. and Sat. | Embraer E175 |
| Loreto (LTO) to San Diego (SAN) | Dec. 19, 2026 | Apr. 28, 2027 | 2x weekly | Embraer E175 |
The Embraer E175 aircraft will be operated by SkyWest Airlines. Passengers will also have access to high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, with complimentary service available to Atmos Rewards members through T-Mobile.
Alaska Airlines Marks 40 Years in San Diego
Alaska Airlines began operating from San Diego on December 1, 1986. Over four decades, its presence has expanded from a single route into a broad network covering destinations across the United States, Mexico and Latin America.
The Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines network also provides nonstop access from San Diego to all four major Hawaiian Islands. Alaska operates San Diego as one of its hubs and maintains both a pilot base and flight attendant base in the region.
The airline is also planning a major airport investment, with one of its largest airline lounges in San Diego scheduled to open in 2028.
Anniversary Giveaway
Alaska Airlines is celebrating its 40th anniversary in San Diego with a months-long customer appreciation campaign.
Forty winners will receive Atmos Rewards Gold status for 40 years. The benefits include complimentary upgrades, free checked bags and other premium benefits available through Alaska’s loyalty program and its global partners.
One grand-prize winner will receive 1 million Atmos Rewards points. The points can be used across Alaska’s growing global network, including connections through Seattle and Honolulu.
Alaska’s international network includes destinations such as London, Reykjavik, Rome, Seoul, Tokyo, Sydney and Papeete. The carrier also plans to launch service to Paris and Athens in spring 2027.
What the Loreto Route Means for San Diego Travelers
The new service strengthens Alaska Airlines’ position in the San Diego market while adding another nonstop Mexico option for local travelers.
Loreto provides access to Baja California Sur’s coastline, beaches and outdoor recreation. The nonstop connection also eliminates the need for passengers traveling between San Diego and Loreto to connect through another airport.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria said the additional nonstop service should create more travel opportunities for local residents while bringing more visitors to the city and supporting the local economy.
Alaska’s Growing Mexico and Global Network
The Loreto launch adds another destination to Alaska Airlines’ Mexico network and strengthens its presence in Baja California Sur.
The airline operates a wider network across North America, Latin America, Asia, the Pacific and Europe through its Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines operations. Both carriers are members of the oneworld alliance.
Atmos Rewards members can earn and redeem points with oneworld airlines and additional global partners serving more than 1,000 destinations worldwide.
Alaska Airlines San Diego-Loreto Route: Key Facts
- Airline: Alaska Airlines (AS)
- Operating carrier: SkyWest Airlines
- Origin: San Diego International Airport (SAN)
- Destination: Loreto International Airport (LTO)
- Launch date: December 19, 2026
- End date: April 28, 2027
- Frequency: Twice weekly
- Aircraft: Embraer E175
- Milestone: Alaska’s 50th nonstop destination from San Diego
- Route status: Only nonstop San Diego-Loreto service
- Wi-Fi: Starlink high-speed internet
- San Diego anniversary: 40 years
FAQs
Why is Alaska Airlines launching flights between San Diego and Loreto?
Alaska Airlines is expanding its Mexico network with seasonal nonstop service between San Diego International Airport (SAN) and Loreto International Airport (LTO). The route will become Alaska’s 50th nonstop destination from San Diego.
When will Alaska Airlines begin San Diego-Loreto flights?
Flights will begin on December 19, 2026, and operate seasonally through April 28, 2027.
How often will Alaska Airlines fly between San Diego and Loreto?
The route will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays.
What aircraft will operate the San Diego-Loreto route?
SkyWest Airlines will operate the flights for Alaska Airlines using Embraer E175 aircraft.
How many nonstop destinations will Alaska Airlines serve from San Diego?
With Loreto added, Alaska Airlines will serve 50 nonstop destinations from San Diego International Airport, the largest nonstop network among airlines serving the airport.
Is Alaska Airlines the only airline flying nonstop between San Diego and Loreto?
Yes. Alaska Airlines will be the only airline offering nonstop service between San Diego and Loreto when the route launches.
How is Alaska Airlines celebrating 40 years in San Diego?
The airline is running a months-long anniversary campaign featuring giveaways. Forty winners will receive 40 years of Atmos Rewards Gold status, while one grand-prize winner will receive 1 million Atmos Rewards points.
What other destinations can San Diego passengers reach on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines?
Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines offer nonstop service from San Diego to all four major Hawaiian Islands, along with destinations across the United States, Mexico, and Latin America. Passengers can also connect through major hubs such as Seattle and Honolulu to Alaska’s international destinations.
What investment is Alaska Airlines making at San Diego International Airport?
Alaska Airlines plans to open one of its largest airline lounges in San Diego in 2028, adding to its broader investment in the market.
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