San Diego International Airport New Terminal 1 Named One of the Most Beautiful in the World 2026
San Diego International Airport’s new Terminal 1 is one of two U.S. airports named to the “Most Beautiful Airports in the World 2026” list by Prix Versailles. The French architecture program recognized the Gensler-designed facility, completed in September 2025, for its integration of regional landscapes and contemporary design.
The Prix Versailles program, established in 2015, recognizes excellence in contemporary architecture and design globally. San Diego’s inclusion places it alongside a select group of international hubs, including Frankfurt Airport in Germany and Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in China.
Why was San Diego’s Terminal 1 recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful?
The terminal’s design mirrors the natural environment of the region. According to the design team at Gensler, the facility draws its identity from San Diego’s canyons, sea, and sky. This is realized through angled rooflines, glass mosaic details, and specially commissioned art installations.
A key feature is the outdoor terrace, which provides panoramic views of the city. Atif Saeed, president and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, stated the goal was to create a terminal that reflects the spirit and character of San Diego while providing exceptional service to travelers.
How is the role of the modern airport changing?
Airports are shifting from simple transit points to cultural symbols. Jérôme Gouadain, secretary general of Prix Versailles, describes contemporary terminals as “innovative symbols” of their regions. He notes that these spaces now resolve the conflict between the need for speed and the desire for a high-quality, accessible tourism experience.
Terence Young, a principal partner at Gensler, says the San Diego project represents the idea that a great airport can transform how a city relates to the rest of the world. This shift suggests a future where infrastructure isn’t just about logistics, but about civic pride and regional branding.
What other airports made the 2026 list?
San Diego is one of only two American airports honored this year; the other is Pittsburgh International Airport. The full list of recognized terminals for 2026 includes:
- United States: San Diego International and Pittsburgh International
- China: Guangzhou Baiyun International (Terminal 3)
- Germany: Frankfurt Airport (Terminal 3)
- India: Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi International (Terminal 2) and Navi Mumbai International (Terminal 1)
- Cambodia: Techo International Airport
What is “smart sustainability” in airport architecture?
Prix Versailles promotes a concept called “smart sustainability,” where culture serves to transcend traditional notions of the environment. According to Gouadain, airport infrastructure leaves a lasting environmental footprint, making it essential that these buildings also contribute to the cultural and social history of humanity.
By combining aesthetic beauty with functional efficiency, airports like SAN aim to reduce the stress of travel while acting as economic and social drivers for their home cities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who designed the new Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport?
The terminal was designed by the San Francisco-based firm Gensler.
When was the new Terminal 1 completed?
Construction was completed in September 2025.
What is Prix Versailles?
It is a prestigious international awards program founded in 2015 that recognizes excellence in contemporary architecture and design, with winners announced annually at the UNESCO headquarters in Paris.
What do you think about the new look of San Diego’s airport? Does the architecture make your travel experience better? Let us know in the comments or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates on urban design and travel infrastructure.