The airport and airline celebrated the new flight with Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee
Oakland, Calif. – April 23, 2026: Alaska Airlines yesterday marked the inaugural launch of four daily, year-round nonstop flights between Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) and San Diego International Airport (SAN). The addition marks a significant expansion of intra-California connectivity for Bay Area travelers. The flight was commemorated with a ribbon-cutting and gate celebration with Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee, along with airport and airline representatives.
“Oakland is on the move, and OAK is leading the way,” said Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee. “Alaska Airlines’ expansion is a strong investment in our city’s momentum and strengthens the connection between Oakland and San Diego. This is what progress looks like: a city that is connected, a hub that is growing, and a community that is open for business.”
San Diego remains a top destination for both business and leisure travelers, known for its beaches, cultural attractions, and year-round sunshine. The new service enhances connectivity and supports tourism, business travel, and regional mobility. Flights are operated using Embraer E175 aircraft, offering an optimal balance of efficiency and passenger comfort.
“We’re proud to launch new daily Oakland–San Diego service, reinforcing our presence in California and our decades-long commitment to serving communities across the state,” said Neil Thwaites, Vice President of Global Sales and California Commercial Planning. “No matter where guests sit, they can expect a thoughtfully curated onboard experience, fresh, elevated meal options and Alaska’s signature hospitality.”
With the addition of San Diego, Alaska Airlines continues to broaden its Oakland network, complementing existing nonstop service to destinations such as Seattle, Portland, and Hawaii via the Hawaiian Airlines brand. The expansion highlights the airline’s continued confidence in Oakland as a key West Coast gateway.
“We’re proud to celebrate the inaugural flights to San Diego and to see Alaska Airlines growing at OAK,” said Craig Simon, Director of Aviation for the Port of Oakland. “This new service strengthens Oakland’s role as a key gateway for California travel while delivering more options and convenience for our passengers.”
With four daily nonstop flights, travelers now have more flexibility for spontaneous getaways, business trips, and weekend escapes. Tickets for the new Oakland–San Diego route are available at alaskaair.com.
Photos and videos from yesterday’s inaugural event are available here.
About Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport
Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK) is the main airport for the greater East Bay, the most populated area in the metropolitan San Francisco Bay area. It is the closest airport to most Bay Area employers. By roadway and BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) air-rail, OAK enables excellent access to all the region’s business, entertainment, and tourism venues. The vision of Oakland Airport is to be the airport of choice for San Francisco Bay Area residents and visitors alike. OAK is operated by the Port of Oakland, which also oversees the Oakland seaport and 20 miles of East Bay waterfront. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 98,000 jobs in the region with more than a $174 billion economic impact.
Updates about current departure and arrival information, airport maps, and details about on-airport parking, shopping and dining and more, can be found at www.oaklandairport.com. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
Kaley Skantz – Airport Spokesperson, [email protected]