John Wayne Airport: Managing Busy Travel Times

John Wayne Airport (SNA) in Orange County, California, is known for its efficient security checks, advanced security tools, and manageable wait times. While the airport can get busy, especially during peak travel periods, it is equipped with three security checkpoints, each featuring smart scanning devices, to ensure a smooth and streamlined process for passengers. The airport also offers TSA PreCheck lanes, which provide enrolled passengers with a faster security experience. On average, passengers can expect to wait around 34 minutes, but wait times can vary, and travellers are advised to arrive early to accommodate security and check-in procedures. John Wayne Airport encourages travellers to plan ahead and arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.

Security wait times

John Wayne Airport (JWA) in Orange County, California, is known for its efficient security checks, with advanced security tools and streamlined processes in place. The airport generally maintains manageable security wait times, but travellers are still advised to arrive well in advance of their flight times.

TSA PreCheck

John Wayne Airport offers TSA PreCheck, an expedited security screening programme, at all security checkpoints. This service is available during specific operating hours, which vary by checkpoint and day of the week. Enrolled passengers can typically clear security in under 5 minutes. However, it is important to note that expedited screening is not guaranteed, as the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) may integrate variable security protocols.

Average Wait Times

Average security wait times at John Wayne Airport can vary significantly, especially during peak travel periods. While the airport provides current wait times, these may not accurately reflect the actual wait time upon arrival. On average, passengers can expect to wait around 34 minutes, but individual experiences may differ.

Recommended Arrival Times

To ensure a comfortable travel experience, John Wayne Airport recommends that travellers arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. This allows adequate time for parking, check-in, and security screening procedures. For early morning flights, travellers may need extra time due to heavy travel volume.

Tips for a Smoother Experience

• Check flight status and parking availability in advance using the airport's website or third-party tools.
• Utilise online check-in and self-service kiosks to save time at the airport.
• Familiarise yourself with security screening requirements, such as the 3-1-1 liquids rule, to avoid delays.
• Consider enrolling in TSA PreCheck for expedited screening, especially if you are a frequent traveller.
• Take advantage of off-airport or off-site parking options for more economical and convenient alternatives.

TSA PreCheck

John Wayne Airport, also known as Santa Ana or Orange County Airport, is a busy airport with three security checkpoints, each equipped with smart scanning devices to ensure a smooth security check process.

To enhance your travel experience, it is essential to understand the security wait times. The TSA PreCheck program is a trusted traveller program that offers eligible passengers expedited screening benefits. The program is available at all security checkpoints at John Wayne Airport and provides enrolled passengers with a streamlined security check process that typically takes less than 5 minutes.

The TSA PreCheck lanes are open during specific operating hours, which vary by day of the week. On Mondays, the lanes are open from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, while on Tuesdays, they are open from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Wednesday's hours are from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Thursdays, the lanes are open from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Friday's hours are from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and on Saturdays, the lanes are open from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Finally, on Sundays, the TSA PreCheck lanes are open from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM. It is important to note that these hours may change based on operational needs, and the Transportation Security Agency (TSA) advises that the hours for TSA PreCheck may vary depending on their operational requirements.

To enrol in the TSA PreCheck program, you can visit the TSA PreCheck Enrollment Center at John Wayne Airport, located on the Arrival (lower) Level of Terminal C, near Baggage Carousel 7. The enrollment centre is open from 6:30 am to 3:00 pm, Monday through Friday, with a closed period from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. While walk-ins may be accommodated, it is recommended that travellers pre-enrol or make an appointment online at www.TSA.gov or by contacting the Universal Enrollment Services Call Center.

By enrolling in the TSA PreCheck program, you can expedite your security screening process at John Wayne Airport and make your travel experience more efficient and enjoyable.

Parking availability

John Wayne Airport (SNA) is known for its efficient security checks, but it is still a busy airport with long wait times, especially during peak travel periods. The airport recommends arriving 1-and-a-half to 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights.

Parking at the airport fills up quickly, so it is recommended to check availability before arriving. The airport offers several parking options, including:

• Terminal Parking (Parking Structures A1, A2, B2, and C)
• Curbside Valet Parking
• Off-site Main Street Parking

All parking structures are accessible from the Departure (upper) Level only. Parking is available for $4 per hour up to $30 per 24-hour period. Oversize vehicles may only be parked on the top levels of the A2 and B2 Parking Structures. Any vehicles taller than 9' 4" should be parked in the Main Street Parking lot.

For those picking up passengers, there is a free cell phone waiting lot located south of Parking Structure C, with 94 spaces available.

Passengers can also take advantage of the ticketless parking option, where they can insert a valid credit card upon entry and exit without needing a parking ticket.

Peak travel periods

John Wayne Airport generally maintains manageable security wait times, with digital displays at each checkpoint providing real-time wait information. However, these times are estimates and can vary, especially during peak travel periods.

For example, the average security wait time in Santa Ana is estimated to be around 34 minutes. However, this can vary significantly, and travellers are advised to arrive well in advance of their flights to accommodate security screening and check-in procedures.

John Wayne Airport encourages travellers to plan ahead and arrive at the airport 1.5 to 2 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. This is to ensure sufficient time to park, complete check-in, and go through security screening, so that passengers are at their gate in time for their flight.

During peak travel periods, such as early mornings, travellers may require extra time due to heavy travel volume. While the airport is rarely crowded, even on Monday mornings when there are typically a lot of business travellers, travellers have reported longer wait times during these peak periods.

To avoid long wait times, travellers can consider enrolling in the TSA PreCheck programme, which offers a streamlined security check process that typically takes less than 5 minutes. However, it is important to note that even with TSA PreCheck, the security wait times can vary, especially during peak travel periods.

Additionally, travellers can take advantage of online check-in services offered by their airline, allowing them to go directly to the security checkpoints with their boarding pass and no baggage to check in. Self-service kiosks are also available throughout the ticket counter lobby for added convenience.

By planning ahead, checking real-time wait times, and utilising programmes like TSA PreCheck, travellers can better manage their time and have a more efficient and enjoyable experience at John Wayne Airport during peak travel periods.

Check-in procedures

John Wayne Airport (SNA) is known for its efficient security checks, with advanced security tools and three security checkpoints, each equipped with smart scanning devices to ensure a smooth process.

Before Leaving for the Airport:

• Check your flight status for any delays or updates using a flight tracker tool.
• If you are an international traveller, ensure you have a passport and any other required documentation. From May 7, 2025, all travellers aged 18 and above will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or federally approved ID.
• Check your baggage for prohibited items, and ensure liquids, gels, or aerosols adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller containers in a 1-quart-size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag.
• Keep batteries, electronic equipment, and devices like laptops and cell phones with you or in carry-on baggage.
• Leave gifts unwrapped, as they may need to be inspected by TSA.
• Pack medications and essential items in your carry-on bag, declaring any liquid or gel medications over 3.4 ounces.

Arriving at the Airport:

• John Wayne Airport encourages travellers to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
• Terminal parking structures fill up quickly, so consider checking availability in advance.
• Online Check-in: Save time by checking in via your airline's website before arriving at the airport.
• Self-Service Kiosks: Use the self-service kiosks in the ticket counter lobby to check in and print your boarding pass.
• Curbside Check-in: Skycaps provide curbside check-in at the main entrance to Terminal C for Southwest Airlines. This service is currently unavailable for other airlines.
• Airline Ticket Counters: For personalized customer service or international travel, visit the ticket counters on the Departure (upper) Level in Terminals A, B, and C.

Security Checkpoints:

• TSA PreCheck: Enrolled passengers can enjoy a streamlined security check, typically taking less than 5 minutes. However, operating hours vary by checkpoint and day of the week.
• Wait Times: John Wayne Airport generally maintains manageable security wait times, with real-time estimates displayed at each checkpoint. Still, these times may vary, so it's advisable to arrive early.
• Security Screening: Remove coats, jackets, and shoes. Place cell phones, keys, and small items in a carry-on bag, and take laptops out of their cases. All carry-on items will be X-rayed.

By following these check-in procedures, passengers can efficiently navigate the security checks at John Wayne Airport and ensure a smooth travel experience.

Frequently asked questions