Alaska Airlines Will Launch San Diego to Loreto Route
The seasonal nonstop service between San Diego and Loreto is scheduled to begin on December 19, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 11, 2026 in Mexico
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Alaska Airlines will introduce seasonal, twice-weekly nonstop service from San Diego International Airport to Loreto, Mexico, starting December 19, 2026. Flights will utilize Embraer 175 regional jets operated by SkyWest Airlines.
Why it matters
The new route expands international travel options for San Diego residents, marking the third nonstop destination in Mexico served by the airline from the city. This addition brings the airline's total nonstop offerings from San Diego to 50 destinations.
The route covers 584 miles between San Diego and Loreto, operating on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Loreto is currently one of only four U.S. airports with nonstop service to the destination.
The players
Alaska Airlines
This major American airline operates a significant hub at San Diego International Airport and serves 50 nonstop destinations from the city.
SkyWest Airlines
This regional airline carrier will operate the Embraer 175 jet flights on behalf of Alaska Airlines for the new route.
U.S. State Department
This federal agency currently maintains a Level 2 travel advisory for the Mexican state of Baja California Sur.
The details
Flights are operated by SkyWest Airlines under the Alaska brand, requiring travelers to clear Mexican immigration and customs upon arrival at Loreto International Airport. Passengers must present a valid passport book for entry into the country.
Timeline
The first flight departs from San Diego to Loreto on 19 December 2026.
The seasonal service concludes with its final flight on 28 April 2027.
Travel Outlook
This route expansion reflects the broader trend of airlines diversifying international capacity from San Diego beyond primary hubs. It positions Loreto as a niche addition within the current portfolio of 12 total international nonstop destinations available from the airport.
Travelers should ensure they possess a valid passport book, which is mandatory for entry into Mexico. Visitors should also review the current U.S. State Department Level 2 advisory for Baja California Sur before finalizing their trip arrangements.
The takeaway
This new connection provides San Diego residents with direct seasonal access to the Gulf of California region. Travelers planning to utilize this route should confirm all documentation requirements well in advance of their December departure.
What happens next
Alaska Airlines will assess the performance of the route after the seasonal service concludes on 28 April 2027 to determine if it will return for the following winter season.
Further reading
Learn more about the latest travel updates for this region by visiting the Mexico section.
More information
To check flight schedules and prices, visit the Alaska Airlines official portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Rio Times.
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