Gillespie Field

Gillespie Field: A Hub of Activity in the Heart of San Diego

Introduction

Owned and operated by the County of San Diego, Gillespie Field is a public towered airport located just 11.5 miles northeast of downtown San Diego in El Cajon, Calif., providing an important transportation link for communities surrounding the central San Diego river valley region. Gillespie Field, with its three runways and many amenities, is perfectly situated for a range of flying situations from private jets to small general aviation aircraft. Hatfield said that the airport has already seen more visitors as business travel picks back up this summer.

Airlines and Destinations

There are no commercial, airline passenger service airlines at Gillespie Field. Nonetheless, the airport remains a key destination for private and charter flights. Four fixed-based operators (FBOs) that will provide numerous services to those who own or fly their aircraft into Gillespie Field are hired on-site as well.

Passenger & Flight Numbers

No commercial flights or passenger statistics are kept at Gillespie Field, which is a general aviation airport. Its focus is to serve the needs of private and corporate aviation, concentrating on a higher level of service to its dedicated users.

How to Get Here

Gillespie Field, 1960 Joe Crosson Drive, El Cajon, CA 92020. Interstate 8 and State Route 67 provide quick access to the airport, which is also home to a commercial jet testing test bed at Mile High.

Parking

The airport has 400,000 sq. ft. of concrete ramp space and plenty of parking for private or corporate aircraft at Gillespie Field MRO in El Cajon. The airport has a separate terminal area with lounges for passengers and crew on private jets.

Transportation Price

Being a general aviation airport, public transportation services are not available at Gillespie Field. Nevertheless, the local area is served by a number of rental car companies and ride-sharing services to meet the ground-transportation needs of commercial and private-aircraft passengers.

Terminal Layout

The primary terminal at Gillespie Field is responsive to private aircraft and passengers, with four FBOs offering a variety of services including fueling, maintenance, and ground handling. There are also several different hangar and office spaces to lease on the airport.

Navigate the Airport

Given its layout for private and corporate aviation, Gillespie Field is relatively easy to navigate. In case of queries and difficulties, staff over the airport as well as available FBOs will be an extra help that is made with all equipment on their ends.

Getting Between Terminals

Gillespie Field is a one-terminal airport, and you do not need to connect between two terminals. There are no services or facilities available other than the main terminal facility.

Services and Amenities

Gillespie Field provides many services and amenities to its users, such as fueling as well as maintenance and ground handling provided by the field's four FBOs. The airport also boasts more than 70,000 square feet of available hangar space for lease and one of the most modern FBO/terminal buildings in the region.

Restaurants and Shops

Although there are no on-site restaurants or shops at Gillespie Field, visitors can enjoy dining and shopping options in the surrounding area.

Security and Customs

It is not, clearly enough, an international airport (it has no U.S. Customs services). Yet the airport has security measures in place to protect all users.

Accessibility

For every traveler, Gillespie Field is user-friendly with dedicated ADA parking and accessible paths of travel throughout the terminal building.

Travel Tips

So if you want to breeze through Gillespie Field — and its ground AC without delay or problem, plan ahead. Pack a little patience; put earplugs in your ears before going out the door. And also, the airport operates on limited hours – 7:00 am to 9 pm, so keep that in mind when you plan your trip!