A li’l bit of the Lone Star State at SDIA

Heralding from a military city on a southern coast, I’ve marveled at how much my Texas hometown (Corpus Christi) is like San Diego. And in some ways, Texas is alive and well at SDIA!

The Airport Authority’s own President/CEO, Thella F. Bowens, claims Texas as her origin, and several other Texans fill out our staff ranks. With great fanfare, the Airport Authority’s annual employee appreciation event is characterized by a Texas barbecue theme.

So what is it about Texas?

Texas is unique among the Union in having been an independent nation for a decade before it joined the U.S. – and that was an inspiration for California, too. Have you ever wondered why California’s Bear Flag contains a single red star (as shown on this Southwest Airlines plane)? It’s a tribute to Texas from Californians who likewise rebelled against rule by Mexico.

So the Airport Authority toasts that Texas spirit of independence and liberty -- something that might be regarded as inspiration to take flight! The largest airline at SDIA (handling more than a third of all our passengers) is none other than Texas-based Southwest Airlines, which loves to tout the “freedom to fly”.

So from many angles, the Texas spirit is alive and well at the Airport Authority!