Alaska Airlines is set to deepen its West Coast network with the launch of a new seasonal route from San Diego International Airport (SAN) to Loreto International Airport (LTO) in Baja California Sur, Mexico. The service, which begins December 19, 2026, will operate twice weekly through April 2027, and will mark the carrier's 50th nonstop destination from San Diego.
The new route underscores Alaska's long-standing commitment to the Southern California market, where it has been a fixture since December 1, 1986. According to the airline, it currently offers more nonstop destinations from San Diego than any other carrier, a position it continues to strengthen with this latest addition.
Celebrating 40 years with loyalty perks
To mark its 40th anniversary in San Diego, Alaska is rolling out a guest appreciation campaign. The airline will award 40 loyal customers with Atmos Rewards Gold status, and one grand prize winner will receive 1 million Atmos Rewards points. The initiative is designed to recognize the frequent flyers who have supported the carrier's growth in the region.
Darren Scott, Alaska Airlines' Managing Director of Network, emphasized the significance of the milestone. "Launching our 50th nonstop destination from San Diego as we celebrate 40 years of serving the region is a meaningful way to thank our guests," Scott said. "Loreto is a serene coastal destination that offers a warm winter escape, and we are excited to provide this new travel option."
The Loreto service will be operated by regional partner SkyWest Airlines using Embraer E175 aircraft, configured with 76 seats. Passengers will have access to complimentary high-speed Starlink WiFi, courtesy of T-Mobile, a feature that has become a differentiator for Alaska on its mainline and regional fleets.
San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria welcomed the expansion, noting the economic benefits of increased air connectivity. "More nonstop services mean more travel opportunities for our residents and greater economic support for our local community," Gloria said. The route is expected to appeal to leisure travelers seeking a winter getaway to the Baja California peninsula, known for its fishing, diving, and historic mission town.
Alaska's investment in San Diego extends beyond new routes. The airline has announced plans to open one of its largest lounges at SAN by 2028, a move that will enhance its premium offering for business and leisure travelers alike. The lounge will be part of a broader terminal improvement project at the airport.
The new Loreto service adds to Alaska's growing list of Mexican destinations from San Diego, which already includes popular spots like Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta. With the addition, Alaska will serve 50 nonstop destinations from SAN, a network that spans the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Industry observers note that Alaska's aggressive expansion in San Diego comes as competition intensifies among West Coast carriers. The airline's focus on regional connectivity and premium amenities, such as Starlink WiFi, positions it well against rivals like Southwest and United, which also operate significant San Diego networks. For travel advisors, the new route offers an additional option for clients seeking off-the-beaten-path Mexican destinations without the crowds of more developed resorts.
Tickets for the Loreto service are now on sale via Alaska's website and through GDS channels, making it accessible to agents booking through Sabre, Amadeus, and Travelport. The airline's loyalty program, now branded as Atmos Rewards, continues to evolve, with the anniversary giveaway serving as a promotional hook to drive engagement.
As Alaska celebrates four decades in San Diego, the airline shows no signs of slowing down. With the 50th destination now on the map and a major lounge on the horizon, the carrier is reinforcing its role as a key player in the region's aviation landscape.
