Air Service & Strategy - Intern II

San Diego County Regional Airport Authority • San Diego, CA

2h • $21 • Onsite

About The Position

Welcome to the SAN Internship Program at San Diego International Airport where our core purpose is to create an exceptional experience for both our community and visitors from around the world. But we’re more than just a place where flights take off and land—we’re a reflection of San Diego’s vibrant spirit: sunny, welcoming, and full of life.
The impact of SAN extends far beyond the terminals; it helps shape the identity and prosperity of San Diego itself. Through our 9-week Summer Internship Program, we’re committed to Building Careers, Shaping Futures. As an intern, you’ll be a vital part of our purpose, contributing to projects that drive innovation, enhance the passenger experience, and support the growth of our city. You’ll also play a key role in advancing our strategic goals:
Advance Airport Development
Transform the Customer Experience
Optimize Ongoing Business
Cultivate Our Culture
Here, culture starts with each of us. Our workplace is shaped by mindsets that guide how we show up for one another: believing the best in people, collaboration, empathy, listening, and thoughtful decision-making. Fresh perspectives aren’t just welcomed here—they’re celebrated. From day one, you’ll be empowered to contribute to meaningful projects that make a real impact.
We believe in creating opportunities that foster growth, learning, and connection. As an intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience, work alongside industry professionals, and build lasting relationships that will help shape your future career. If you’re ready to be part of a team that connects our community to the world while embracing the future of aviation, apply today!
Why You'll Love Working at SAN this Summer:
Location: The new Airport Authority Administration building, located on the San Diego International Airport campus and near the waterfront, providing stunning views of our runway, San Diego Bay, the Pacific Ocean, and the city skyline.
Salary and Schedule: The Intern II salary is a competitive hourly rate of $21.00/hr. All internship positions are full-time, with standard department working hours, and require a commitment to working on-site for a 9-week program.
Internship Perks: We provide a range of opportunities and perks that enhance the internship experience. Gain hands-on experience in a dynamic work environment with real-world applications. Access mentorship and networking opportunities to connect with industry professionals and get exposure to innovative projects that contribute to the growth of San Diego International Airport.
Your Future Starts Here: At SAN, we believe an internship is more than just a summer job—it’s a first class flight toward your future career. Many of our past interns have leveraged their experience to secure full-time roles at SAN or with our aviation, transportation, and public sector partners. Exceptional interns may even be considered for future employment opportunities with the Airport Authority, making this internship a valuable investment in your career journey.
Additional Perks Include: Discounts at airport concessions, allowing you to enjoy food and shopping options at a reduced price and complimentary access to the airport campus gyms to help you stay active and maintain wellness during your internship.
Application Deadline: March 13, 2026. Interviews will be scheduled between March 25th to April 3rd.
Internship Snapshot:
Before a new nonstop route appears on the departures board, there’s a quiet chess match happening behind the scenes. Airports study demand. Airlines study risk. Communities study opportunity; this internship drops you right into that strategy room.
The Customer Experience department is looking for an Air Service & Strategy Intern II with a passion for making strategic decisions. The ideal candidate will bring fresh analytical perspectives and great presentation skills.
As an Air Service & Strategy Intern II, you’ll help analyze travel demand, airline networks, and regional economics to support efforts to attract and retain airline service at SAN. You’ll transform data into insight and marketing strategies with persuasive storytelling that helps airlines see why San Diego belongs on their map.

Requirements

• Active Participation: Interns are expected to actively engage in all tours, workshops, projects, and activities set by program management during their internship.
• Communication: Strong communication skills across various platforms and formats, including email, formal writing, instructional materials, interpersonal interactions, and public speaking.
• Teamwork and Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team, respecting different perspectives, and contributing to shared goals.
• Organizational Skills: Strong organizational skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple tasks and activities while adhering to various timelines.
• Listening Skills: Actively listening to others, seeking to understand their point of view, and responding thoughtfully to feedback and discussions.
• Technical Proficiency: Ability to operate computer equipment and software applications relevant to the role.
• Record Management and Reporting: Ability to maintain and organize work-related records, and prepare clear, concise reports using computer tools.
• Public Engagement and Professionalism: Comfort and professionalism in engaging with the public and interacting with all individuals.
• Students currently enrolled in at least twelve (12) units at an accredited college may qualify.
• Students in their final semester or quarter who need less than full-time enrollment to graduate with four (4) year degree need only be enrolled part-time in courses required for degree completion.
• Educational major must be related to area of interest.
• Applications without a copy of transcript(s) attached will not be considered.
• Successful completion of a post-offer pre-employment medical examination and an alcohol/chemical substance test is mandatory.
• A thorough background investigation, including an FBI fingerprint based criminal history records check, of your references and employment/education history from the last 10 years will be conducted. This includes a visit to our Access Control Office inside Terminal 2 in the San Diego International Airport, be camera ready!
• Submission of documentation proving citizenship or legal authorization to work in the United States is essential, complying with the Immigration Reform Act of 1986.
• Timely completion of all required onboarding forms.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing an airline business case for target or current carriers, analyzing passenger demand, airline network strategy, and market trends.
• Conduct regional market research including demographics, industry growth, tourism patterns, and economic indicators affecting air service potential.
• Develop data-driven graphics, charts, and presentation materials to support airline outreach efforts, including comprehensive airline business cases for prospective and existing carriers, and market stakeholder briefings.
• Partner with the Business Intelligence team to refine datasets, dashboards, and reporting tools.
• Support analysis of route performance and competitive markets.

Benefits

• Discounts at airport concessions, allowing you to enjoy food and shopping options at a reduced price
• Complimentary access to the airport campus gyms to help you stay active and maintain wellness during your internship

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed