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$182 Cheap Flights from Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN)

Popular airlines from Albany Intl. Airport (ALB) to San Diego Intl. Airport (SAN)

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Cheap Flights from Albany to San Diego (ALB-SAN)

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $182 for one-way flights and $370 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
American Airlines
American Airlines
Southwest Airlines
United
Delta
Alaska Airlines

Alternative airports near San Diego

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight from Albany Intl. to San Diego Intl.

Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN) at a glance

Travel between Albany (ALB) and San Diego (SAN) with a range of airlines offering weekly flights on this long domestic route. Discover affordable options with cheap flights from Albany, whether you prefer full-service carriers or budget-friendly choices. This allows you to find the itinerary that aligns with your budget, schedule, and travel preferences as you explore San Diego's renowned attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Get ready for your journey from Albany International Airport to San Diego International Airport.

  • Fastest flight duration: around 7 hours in-flight, plus roughly 1h 15m layover with one stop
  • Route distance: roughly 2,400 miles (3,860 km)
  • Flights per week: around 14 flights with multiple daily departures on average
  • Typical fares (one-way): economy tickets often range from $145–$510, depending on seasonality and how far ahead you book

Flights from Albany International Airport (ALB) to San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Based on recent traveler bookings, here are the top airlines preferred for flights from Albany to San Diego, particularly for one-stop and multi-stop journeys. Common layover spots include O'Hare International Airport (ORD), with an approximate layover of 1 hour and 30 minutes; Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), typically about 55 minutes; and Charlotte-Douglas International Airport (CLT), which has a layover of around 1 hour. These options allow you to balance price, total travel time, and cabin class to craft the ideal itinerary.

  • American Airlines: This full-service airline provides one-stop flights, with one-way prices generally falling within the $145–$500 range. It represents about 31% of the departures on this route, featuring a flight duration of 7 hours and a complete travel time of approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • Southwest Airlines: As a budget-friendly carrier, Southwest offers both one-stop and multi-stop options, with one-way fares typically between $145 and $540. It makes up around 26% of the flights on this route, with a standard 1-stop journey taking 7 hours in the air and a total travel time of about 8 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Delta: Another full-service option, Delta provides one-stop services with one-way fares usually ranging from $150 to $570. This airline accounts for roughly 23% of departures on the route, featuring a flight time of 7 hours and an overall journey time of about 8 hours and 30 minutes, including layover.
  • United: Also a full-service airline, United offers one-stop flights with one-way fares typically between $145 and $535. It comprises approximately 20% of departures along this route, with a flight time of 7 hours and a total travel duration of around 8 hours and 30 minutes, factoring in layover.

Travelers flying from Albany to San Diego have the option to upgrade their flight. Delta and United both provide first-class and premium economy service, while American Airlines features first-class seating for those seeking a more luxurious experience.

Best time to fly from Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN)

The most popular months for travelers flying from Albany to San Diego are March, April, and August, when peak temperatures in San Diego reach up to 72.3°F in August. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 72°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $221). Flight availability peaks in June, August, October, and November, with approximately 17 flights per week, making it easier to find convenient departure times. January and February have the fewest flights, with approximately 12 flights per week.

  • Cheapest time to fly: September usually offers good deals with average one-way fare around $221, roughly 20% cheaper than the yearly average.
  • Another budget-friendly time to fly: May typically offers an average one-way fare of around $244.
  • Most flight options: June, August, October, and November have the highest number of flights from Albany to San Diego, with approximately 17 flights per week, giving you more flexibility in scheduling your trip.
calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturecrowd level iconDemandflights iconWeekly Flightsprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January57.4°F (14.1°C)Average12$273
February56.8°F (13.8°C)Average12$286
March58.1°F (14.5°C)Moderately High13$296
April60.6°F (15.9°C)Moderately High14$302
May62.6°F (17.0°C)Moderately Low15$244
June66.4°F (19.1°C)Average17$307
July70.5°F (21.4°C)Average15$250
August72.3°F (22.4°C)Moderately High17$294
September72.0°F (22.2°C)Moderately Low14$221
October68.2°F (20.1°C)Average17$257
November62.6°F (17.0°C)Average17$267
December57.4°F (14.1°C)Moderately Low14$324

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

Alternative routes from Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN)

  • Schenectady to San Diego (SCH-SAN): Schenectady County Airport (SCH) is located approximately 9 miles from Albany International Airport (ALB).
  • Albany to Carlsbad (ALB-CLD): McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) is roughly 28 miles from San Diego International Airport (SAN).
  • Great Barrington to San Diego (GBR-SAN): Walter J. Koladza Airport (GBR) lies about 44 miles from Albany International Airport (ALB).

How to find the best prices for flights from Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN)

Getting some of the best deals on flights from Albany to San Diego is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Best times to book and fly: cheaper fares are typically found when booking 2-8 weeks in advance, which aligns with when most travelers make their reservations. Morning departures between 5 AM and 12 PM tend to offer lower prices and are also the most popular flight times. Additionally, flying on Wednesday not only provides cheaper prices but is also the most favored travel day.
  2. Set up price alerts: stay updated on price changes by using Expedia's Price Tracker. Receive alerts when fares drop for your selected route.
  3. Bundle and save: bundle your flight and hotel to save on Expedia, or unlock a hotel deal after booking your flight.* Find San Diego hotel and flight deals.
  4. Compare flight options: use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  5. Stay flexible with dates: being open to different travel days can sometimes help you find better prices on flights and hotels.
  6. Think about luggage: nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.

*Members only. Savings vary and are not available on all bundles. Select hotels.

Arriving at San Diego International Airport from Albany International Airport

San Diego welcomes travelers from Albany with a range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. For departures, Albany International Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive (covering about 9 miles) from central Albany. Here's how to reach San Diego efficiently:

  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in San Diego, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance with your hotel.
  • Car rental: Renting a car from San Diego International Airport is a great option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals at San Diego International Airport on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.
  • Public transportation: From San Diego International Airport, Seaport, a seaport, is located about 0.1 miles away on foot, while Middletown Station, a metro station, is approximately 2.3 miles away by car. Additionally, B Street Cruise Ship Terminal, a cruise terminal, is situated around 3 miles from the airport and can also be reached by car.

Frequently asked questions

How much does a flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) cost?
You can find cheap one-way flights from $182 and cheap return flights from $370 Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) with Expedia. One-way flights typically cost between $195 and $837, and return flights often range between $397 and $1348. Flight prices vary based on the month and day of the week you want to travel, as well as the airline and how far in advance you book your ticket. Filter your search on Expedia by "Price (lowest to highest)" to see the cheapest fares first, and use the Price Tracking tool to receive alerts when Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) ticket fares go up or down.*Typical price ranges based on flights available on Expedia in the last year. Prices include multi-airline options.
What is the cheapest month to fly from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
January is the cheapest month to fly from Albany, NY (ALB) to San Diego, CA (SAN), with average round-trip fares around $328. This price is about 26% lower than the average fare throughout the year, as travel demand tends to drop after the holiday season. Other budget-friendly months include September and November.*Averages based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
Which airlines fly direct from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Enter ALB to SAN and your travel dates, then apply the 'Nonstop' filter to see only direct flights.
What is the cheapest airline that flies from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Southwest Airlines is one of the cheapest airlines offering connecting flights from Albany (ALB) to San Diego (SAN) with return tickets starting from around $666 with a layover in Midway Intl. (MDW). Use Expedia's search tool to compare the prices and schedules of airlines that fly this route to find the best option for your plans and budget.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
How do I find cheap flights from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
To find a cheap flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.), be flexible with your dates. Traveling outside of peak vacation months and booking a mid-week flight can help you save. Early morning and late night flights are often more affordable, too. Expedia allows you to compare flight times, airlines and routes all in one place to find low fares. You can also set up Price Tracking and receive alerts when fares go up or down.
What is the best time to fly from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The best times to fly from Albany, NY (ALB) to San Diego, CA (SAN) are in January and September. You can find return flights for about $328 during these months. January is a great time to escape the winter chill, while September offers lovely weather and fewer tourists.*Prices based on flights available on Expedia in the last year.
What is the earliest flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The earliest flight from Albany International Airport (ALB) to San Diego International Airport (SAN) usually departs at around 5:00 AM, operated by American Airlines. This seasonal service is available in January and December, giving you a head start on your day in sunny San Diego. To compare early flights on Expedia, select the "Early Morning" and "Morning" filters in your search.
What are the most popular departure times for flights from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
The most popular departure times for flights from Albany Intl. (ALB) to San Diego Intl. (SAN) are in the early morning, from 6am to 9am. About 35% of passengers prefer this time window. Many major carriers, including American Airlines, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines, offer flights during this window. This timing works well because it allows you to start your day early and arrive in San Diego with plenty of time to enjoy the city.
How long does it take to fly from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
Flying from ALB to SAN with a connection usually takes about 8 hours 30 minutes, traveling roughly 2,440 miles. Keep in mind that actual flight times can vary due to wind patterns, weather, and air traffic.
Can you fly business or first class from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
You can fly first class between ALB and SAN. First class cabins are available on:

  • Delta Air Lines
  • American Airlines
  • United Airlines

How do I earn miles on a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight with Expedia?
It's easy to earn miles on a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight when you book with Expedia. Before you confirm your booking, simply select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number. As a member of One Key™, you can also earn OneKeyCash™* on top of your airline miles when you book with Expedia.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
What airports do you fly into for San Diego from Albany Intl. (ALB)?
From Albany Intl. (ALB), you can fly into San Diego Intl. (SAN) to reach San Diego. Some flights may connect through major hubs like Baltimore Washington Intl. Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Midway Intl. (MDW), Washington Dulles Intl. (IAD) before reaching San Diego. Compare routes and airports on Expedia to find the best flight options for your travel plans.
Is it cheaper to buy a plane ticket from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) at the last minute?
Typically, booking a last minute flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) will be more expensive than booking in advance. As the departure date approaches, there are usually fewer seats available which can drive up the cost. However, if there's some wiggle room with your travel dates and times, you could bag a cheap last-minute fare.
Is it cheaper to book a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight and hotel package?
Securing a Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) San Diego Vacation Packages is usually cheaper than booking separately. With Expedia, you can enjoy the ease of organizing your travels all in one place. Select from our extensive range of stays and then add flights, activities and car rentals to your booking. Bundle everything together, and you could save hundreds of dollars.
Can I cancel or change the date of my flight from Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.)?
If you booked your Albany, NY (ALB-Albany Intl.) to San Diego, CA (SAN-San Diego Intl.) flight within the last 24 hours, you may be able to modify or cancel it without any fees. Depending on the airline and the type of ticket you have, additional charges may apply for changes beyond this timeframe. Airline policies and contact information can be found in your itinerary or confirmation email. Or, head to our Customer Service portal if you'd like more information.

Travel information

Origin airport
Albany Intl.
Destination airport
San Diego Intl.
Airlines serving
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta, Southwest Airlines, United
Roundtrip price
$370
Distance
2440 mi

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*Flight schedules are subject to change.

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