SNA Airport Insights & Guide
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Airport Recent News
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know SNA Airport
Welcome to our Orange County John Wayne Airport Online Guide. SNA serves as a key gateway to Southern California, offering travelers a convenient and efficient airport experience. A unique feature of this airport is its rich history, dating back to the 1920s, and its namesake, the famous actor John Wayne. Whether you're departing, arriving, or just passing through, our guide is designed to help you navigate SNA with ease. For more information on other airports you might be visiting, check out our comprehensive guide to worldwide airports.
WATCH VIDEO: Take a journey through the John Wayne Airport Departure Terminal in Orange County, CA, and experience exceptional service:
Airport News
Orange County John Wayne Airport (SNA) is set to enhance travel options with new nonstop services. Breeze Airways has announced the introduction of nonstop flights from Tampa International Airport to SNA. This new route, starting in 2024, will provide passengers with more direct travel options between Southern California and Florida, significantly improving convenience for travelers. (sources: Tampa International Airport News)
Navigating SNA's Terminals
Orange County Airport has three terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C. Terminal A has 10 gates and is primarily used by Alaska Airlines and Delta Air Lines. Terminal B has 14 gates and is used by American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and WestJet. Terminal C has 14 gates and is primarily used by United Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
Getting around the airport is easy with clear signage and helpful staff. There are moving walkways and elevators to help passengers navigate between levels and terminals. Restrooms and water fountains are located throughout the airport.
For dining and shopping options, passengers can find a variety of restaurants and stores in each terminal. Terminal A has options such as Peet's Coffee, California Pizza Kitchen, and Ruby's Diner. Terminal B offers options such as Javi's, Ruby's Diner, and Starbucks. Terminal C has options such as Javi's, Ruby's Diner, and California Pizza Kitchen.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
SNA has three terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C. The terminals are all connected by a pedestrian walkway, making it easy to navigate between them. The walk times between the terminals are relatively short, with Terminal A and Terminal B being the closest and Terminal C being a bit further away.
If you prefer not to walk, a shuttle bus service is available to transport passengers between the terminals. The shuttle buses run every 15 minutes and are free of charge. The shuttle bus stops are located outside of each terminal, so simply follow the signs to the shuttle stop.
Tips from SNA Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Orange County John Wayne Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from SNA-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"When navigating through SNA, remember that Terminal A is closest to the parking structures, making it very convenient if you're in a rush. The signage is clear, but it's always a good idea to check the interactive map before you arrive." — Alex H., Irvine, CA, December 2023
"If you're connecting between terminals, the pedestrian walkway is the quickest route. It's a short walk, and you get to enjoy the California sunshine for a bit." — Maria G., Newport Beach, CA, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"For a smooth ride to Santa Ana, consider using the OCTA buses. They are frequent and budget-friendly, especially during peak traffic hours when taxis can be expensive." — John P., Costa Mesa, CA, March 2024
"If you're using a ride-share service, make sure to head to the designated pickup area. It's well-marked, and drivers usually arrive promptly." — Emily S., Anaheim, CA, May 2024
Parking
"For long-term parking, I always use the off-airport lots. They offer shuttle services to the terminals and are significantly cheaper than the on-site options." — David L., Tustin, CA, June 2024
"Remember that the cell phone waiting area is free and a great spot to wait until your passenger is ready to be picked up. It saves you from circling the airport." — Sarah M., Garden Grove, CA, August 2024
Inside the Airport
"If you have time to spare, head to Terminal C for some quiet time near Gate 22. It's a less crowded area, perfect for relaxing before your flight." — Lisa K., Laguna Beach, CA, September 2024
"Don't miss out on the California Pizza Kitchen in Terminal A. It's a great place to grab a bite before your flight, and the service is usually pretty quick." — Brian T., Huntington Beach, CA, October 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Arriving early is key, especially during peak travel times. Security lines can get long, but if you're there early, you'll breeze through." — Kevin J., Irvine, CA, November 2024
"Keep an eye on the flight displays for real-time updates. They are located throughout the terminals and are very reliable for any last-minute changes." — Rachel N., Mission Viejo, CA, January 2024
iFly Tip: Get tips on handling special items and avoid hassles with our baggage information resource.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
The airport provides several options for picking up and dropping off passengers. Curbside parking is available for a maximum of two minutes in front of the terminals for active loading and unloading only. It is important to note that vehicles cannot be left unattended, and drivers must stay inside their vehicles at all times. Violators may be subject to a citation or towing.
If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, the airport offers cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas are free to use and provide a convenient place to wait until your passenger has arrived and claimed their luggage. Once your passenger is ready to be picked up, you can proceed to the curbside area for active loading and unloading.
Parking Facilities & Options
Orange County John Wayne Airport offers a variety of parking options for travelers. There are multiple parking lots and garages available, including Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C parking structures. Each parking structure is conveniently located near its respective terminal, making it easy for travelers to access their flights.
If you're waiting to pick up a passenger, there are also cell phone waiting areas available. These areas are free to use and allow you to wait in your car until your passenger is ready to be picked up.
Handicapped parking is available in all parking structures and lots. Designated spaces are located near elevators and shuttle stops for easy access.
If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available. These parking lots are located near the airport and offer shuttle service to and from the terminals. They can be a great option for travelers looking to save money on parking fees.
Get details about Orange County Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
SNA, located in Santa Ana, California, offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.
- Car Rental: For those who prefer to rent a car, the airport has several car rental facilities available, including major providers such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These facilities are conveniently located near the terminal and offer a range of vehicles to suit any traveler's needs.
- Taxis: If you prefer to take a taxi, there are several drop-off areas located near the terminal. Fares vary depending on your destination but are typically around $2.50 per mile.
- Ride Share Services: Shared ride services, such as Uber and Lyft, are also available at the airport. Pickup areas for these services are located outside of the terminal, and there may be restrictions on the number of passengers or amount of luggage allowed.
- Airport Shuttles: Airport shuttles are another option for travelers. These services typically offer door-to-door service to and from the airport, and fares vary depending on your destination. Pickup areas for airport shuttles are located outside of the terminal.
- Public Transportation: Finally, for those looking for a more budget-friendly option, public transportation is available near the airport. The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) offers bus service to and from the airport, with fares starting at just $2.
iFly Tip: Avoid the stress of airport security by learning about common errors travelers make.
Airport Hotels
Traveling can be tiring, but finding the perfect hotel near the airport can significantly enhance your travel experience. Whether you're on a business trip, a vacation, or just passing through, the convenience of staying close to the airport can't be overstated. Our guide provides an overview of some of the best hotel options, offering a blend of comfort, accessibility, and luxury to cater to all types of travelers. From hotels that are just a stone's throw away from the airport, to beachfront properties and tranquil retreats, there's something for everyone. Each hotel brings something unique to the table, be it complimentary shuttle services, pet-friendly accommodations, fitness centers, or private patios. Discover more about these fantastic options at John Wayne Airport Hotels.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
Traveling through Orange County Airport and looking for a bite to eat or some last-minute shopping? You're in luck! The airport offers a wide variety of restaurants and stores to choose from, including California Pizza Kitchen, Pei Wei, Sunglass Hut, and Brookstone, just to name a few. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, find your choice of amenities here.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at SNA Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, find your choice of amenities here.
Passenger Services
SNA Airport, located in the United States, offers a variety of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and stress-free travel experience.
For those needing to stay connected, free WiFi is available throughout the airport terminals, including Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C.
If you have lost an item during your travels, the airport's Lost and Found department is located in Terminal A and can assist in retrieving your lost belongings.
Traveling with children? The airport offers designated children's play areas in each terminal to keep kids entertained before their flight.
Special-needs services are also available, including wheelchair assistance and accessible restrooms. Contact the airport's Passenger Services department for more information.
Need to take care of banking during your travels? An ATM is located in each terminal for your convenience.
In case of a medical emergency, the airport has a medical clinic located in Terminal B, and trained medical personnel are available on site.
Flight Status Info
As an air traveler, it is essential to stay informed about the status of your flight, especially when traveling through busy airports like the airport. Fortunately, there are several ways to get flight status updates at this airport.
The most convenient method is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time information about flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply look up your flight number on the display to get the latest updates.
Another way to stay informed is to download your airline's mobile phone app. Most airlines offer apps that allow you to track the status of your flight, receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes, and even check-in for your flight. You can also sign up for text, email, and push notifications through the app to receive updates about your flight.
Passengers can check the status of their flight departure at Orange County John Wayne Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
iFly Tip: Understand the logistics behind your flight route with insights on airline hubs.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Orange County John Wayne Airport (SNA) is located in Santa Ana, California, United States.
- Terminals: The airport features three terminals: Terminal A, Terminal B, and Terminal C.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines serving the airport include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines. For a full list of airlines, visit the SNA Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: The airport handles approximately 25,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: SNA sees around 200 daily flights.
- Top Destinations: The most popular destinations served from SNA are San Francisco, Denver, Seattle, Phoenix, and Las Vegas.
- Hub Status: Orange County John Wayne Airport is a convenient and efficient airport for travelers in the Southern California area.
Airport History
The airport, located in Santa Ana, California, has a rich history dating back to the 1920s. Originally known as the Orange County Airport, it was a small airfield used for general aviation and crop dusting. Over the years, the airport has undergone several name changes and expansions, becoming the bustling commercial airport it is today.
Significant events in the airport's history include:
- 1923: The Orange County Board of Supervisors approves the purchase of 100 acres of land for the Orange County Airport.
- 1939: The airport is renamed the Santa Ana Army Air Base and is used for military training during World War II.
- 1949: The airport is returned to Orange County and is renamed the Orange County Airport.
- 1967: The airport is renamed the John Wayne Airport in honor of the famous actor and Orange County resident.
- 1990: The airport undergoes a major expansion, adding a new terminal and runway.
- 2000: The airport is renamed the Orange County John Wayne Airport.
- 2011: The airport completes a $543 million improvement project, including a new terminal and parking structure.
- 2020: The airport experiences a significant decrease in passenger traffic due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Today, Orange County John Wayne Airport serves over 10 million passengers annually, offering flights to destinations throughout the United States and Mexico.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about John Wayne Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: SNA
- Airport Website
- Phone: +1 949-252-5200
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: John Wayne Airport, 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, CA 92707, United States
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Orange County John Wayne Airport Q&A
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