John Wayne Airport (JWA) is a beautiful airport located in the heart of Southern California that offers a truly unique travel experience. The airport provides a feeling of luxury and sophistication.

Not only the stylish interior and modern infrastructures, but John Wayne Airport also features various services including excellent dining, shopping, duty-free, art exhibitions, and more.

In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at John Wayne Airport in Orange County, and discover the many features, and amenities that make it one of the most renowned airports in the United States.

So, let’s get started.

Explore John Wayne Airport in Orange County

John Wayne Airport (ICAO: KSNA, IATA: SNA, FAA LID: SNA) is the major airport in Orange County, California that is categorized as a commercial, and general aviation airport.

The airport was originally known as Orange County Airport but was later renamed John Wayne Airport in 1979 in honor of actor John Wayne.

The 3-letter designator assigned to the airport by IATA is ‘SNA’. The airport is commonly known by its 3-letter short form ‘JWA’.

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John Wayne Airport in Orange County

Situated at an elevation of 56 ft (17 m) above mean sea level (AMSL), JWA serves Orange County, and the Greater Los Angeles Area. At present, 13 commercial airlines, and two cargo carriers operate regular flights to and from SNA.

SNA serves more than 10 million yearly passengers, and is also home to almost 500 general aviation aircraft. A total of 68% of operations at the airport are covered by general aviation.

With this short introduction, let’s move forward to explore more about the airport.

John Wayne Airport Terminals

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John Wayne Airport Terminal C

There are three terminals available at John Wayne Airport which are Terminals A, B, and C. All these terminals are located within the same Thomas F. Riley building.

SNA Terminal History

The original 22,000-square-foot Tom Henderson Terminal was constructed in 1967 to accommodate 400,000 yearly travelers. Renovations included the addition of two passenger waiting areas in 1974, a new baggage claim zone in 1980, and a terminal expansion building in 1982, increasing the facility’s size to 29,000 square feet. The Tom Henderson Terminal was razed in 1994 after the new Alexander M. Davis Terminal was finished.

The Alexander M. Davis Terminal was unveiled to the public on September 16, 1990, and is named after the former Fifth District Supervisor, whose involvement in community talks advanced the Airport Improvement Project that led to the construction of the new Terminal complex. The 337,900 square-foot structure (Terminals A and B) had 14 commercial traveler gates, four baggage carousels, two airline club lounges, and a variety of food and gift concessions. The updated Terminal was designed to handle 8.4 Million Annual Passengers (MAP).

In 2011, JWA finished the bulk of a multi-year enhancement program that encompassed the construction of a third multi-story Terminal C with six new commercial traveler gates; two commuter terminals; new security checkpoints; additional dining and shopping concessions; increased baggage screening capabilities; new federal inspection facilities to serve international arrivals; Parking Structure C with over 2,000 parking spaces; a Central Utility Plant; and a new South Remain-Over-Night (RON) aircraft parking area.

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The present-day Davis Terminal is 730,505 square feet and features 20 commercial traveler gates and two smaller commuter passenger terminals at the northern and southern ends. In October 2018, the Airport concluded a significant improvement project that, in addition to a multitude of safety, code, comfort, and aesthetic enhancements, also included the installation of a Nursing Mother’s Lounge and Animal Relief Area.

JWA Terminal Facilities

  • Accessibility
  • Airport Tours
  • Animal Relief Areas
  • Baggage Claim Areas
  • ATM
  • Bob Hope USO
  • Charging Stations
  • Currency Exchange
  • Healthy Travels
  • Travel Assistance
  • Hoag Health Services
  • Lost & Found 
  • Nursing Mother’s Lounge
  • OC AirPASS
  • Travel Tips
  • TSA PreCheck
  • Water Refill
  • Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport
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Terminal Services at John Wayne Airport in Orange County

John Wayne Airport Runway Length

Talking about the runway, SNA Airport is equipped with two asphalt runways with the designations Rwy 02L/20R, and Rwy 02R/20L.

Runway 02L/20R is the longer runway with a length of 5,700 ft (1,737 m) whereas the shorter Runway 02R/20L is only 2,886 ft (880 m) long. The shorter runway is not able to facilitate big jet operations.

As we discussed above, JWA airport serves both commercial and general aviation operations. The 2,887-foot runway facilitates general aviation activities while the 5,700-foot primary runway is responsible for handling both commercial, and general aviation aircraft.

SNA RUNWAY DESIGNATIONLENGTHSURFACE
RWY 02L/20R5,700 ft (1,737 m)Asphalt
RWY 02R/20L2,886 ft (880 m)Asphalt

John Wayne Airport Gate Map

The Thomas R. Filey building at JWA Airport holds three terminals: A, B, and C. You can find a total of 22 commercial passenger gates, and 2 smaller commuter passenger terminals at the north and south ends.

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Terminals A, and B accommodate a total of 13 commercial passenger gates, and 4 baggage carousels. On the other hand, Terminal C holds 9 new commercial passenger gates.

JWA TERMINALSGATES
Terminal A1A, 1B, 1C, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8
Terminal B9, 10, 11, 12, and 13
Terminal C14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22A, 22B, and 22C

What airlines fly out of John Wayne Airport?

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Airlines at John Wayne Airport in Orange County

A total of 12 passenger airlines operate regular commercial passenger flights to and from John Wayne Airport in Orange County. The list of operating airlines with their respective destinations, and terminals are illustrated in the table below.

AIRLINESJWA TERMINALDESTINATIONS
Air CanadaTerminal AVancouver
Alaska AirlinesTerminal BEverett, Portland (OR), San Francisco, Santa Rosa, Seattle/Tacoma
Allegiant AirTerminal CAustin, Boise, Eugene, Idaho Falls, Las Vegas, Medford, Missoula, Phoenix/Mesa, Provo, Reno/Tahoe, Sioux Falls, Spokane
Seasonal: Des Moines
American AirlinesTerminal AAustin, Charlotte, Chicago–O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, New York–JFK, Phoenix–Sky Harbor
Breeze AirwaysTerminal AOrlando, Pittsburgh, Provo, Cincinnati, and Columbus
Delta Air LinesTerminal AAtlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis/St. Paul, Salt Lake City, Seattle/Tacoma
Frontier AirlinesTerminal CDallas/Fort Worth (begins May 21, 2023), Denver, Las Vegas, Phoenix–Sky Harbor
JSXACI JetConcord (CA), Dallas–Love, Las Vegas, Oakland, Reno/Tahoe
Seasonal: Monterey
Southwest AirlinesTerminal CAustin, Dallas–Love, Denver, Las Vegas, Nashville, Oakland, Phoenix–Sky Harbor, Puerto Vallarta, Sacramento, San Jose (CA), San José del Cabo
Seasonal: Houston–Hobby, St. Louis
Spirit AirlinesTerminal CLas Vegas, Oakland, and Phoenix
United AirlinesTerminal BChicago–O’Hare, Denver, Houston–Intercontinental, Newark, San Francisco
WestJetTerminal ACalgary, Vancouver

In addition to the passenger airlines, there are two cargo operators (FedEx Express, and UPS Airlines) responsible for cargo operations to and from JWA.

CARGO AIRLINESDESTINATIONS
FedEx ExpressLos Angels, and Memphis
UPS AirlinesPhoenix–Sky Harbor, and Louisville

What airlines fly direct to John Wayne Airport in Orange County?

Almost all commercial passenger airlines operating at JWA Airport except American Airlines offer non-stop flights to various destinations.

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You can refer to the following table to find out what airlines fly direct to JWA Airport with the non-stop destinations.

AIRLINES AT JWANON-STOP DESTINATIONS
Air CanadaVancouver, Canada (YVR)
Alaska AirlinesEverett (PAE), Portland (PDX), San Francisco (SFO),  Santa Rosa/Sonoma (STS), and Seattle (SEA)
Allegiant AirAustin (AUS), Boise (BOI), Des Moines (DSM), Eugene (EUG), Idaho Falls (IDA), Las Vegas (LAS), Medford (MFR), Missoula (MSO), Phoenix (PHX), Provo (PVU), and Sioux Falls (FSD)
Breeze AirwaysCincinnati (CVG), Columbus (CMH), Orlando (MCO), Pittsburgh (PIT), and Prove (PVU)
Delta Air LinesAtlanta (ATL), Detroit (DTW), Minneapolis/St. Paul (MSP), Salt Lake City (SLC), and Seattle (SEA)
Frontier AirlinesDenver (DEN), Las Vegas (LAS), and Phoenix (PHX)
JSXConcord (CCD), Dallas/Fort Worth (DAL), Las Vegas (LAS), Mammoth (MMH), Monterey (MRY), Oakland (OAK), and Reno (RNO)
Southwest AirlinesDallas/Fort Worth (DAL), Houston (IAH), Puerto Vallarta (PVR) and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico (SJD) 
Spirit AirlinesPhoenix (PHX)
United AirlinesHouston (IAH)
WestJetCalgary (YYC), and Vancouver (YVR)

How early do I need to arrive at John Wayne Airport?

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To ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience, John Wayne Airport recommends that passengers plan ahead and arrive at the airport well in advance of their scheduled departure time. 

For domestic flights, it is advised to arrive at least 1-1/2 to 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure time, while for international flights, it is recommended to arrive at least 3 hours in advance. 

This will provide sufficient time to navigate through the airport, including parking, checking in for your flight, and completing the necessary security screenings. 

Additionally, arriving early will allow you to take advantage of the airport’s many amenities and services, including dining, shopping, and lounges, and ensure that you board your flight on time.

Airline Club Lounges at John Wayne Airport in Orange County

There are two airline lounges at JWA Airport: American Airlines Admirals Club, and United Airlines United Club. 

AIRLINES LOUNGE AT JWALOCATIONOPERATIONAL TIME
American Airlines Admirals ClubMezzanine Level of the Terminal 5:15 am to 6:30 pm (MON-WED)
5:15 am to 4:15 pm (THU-SAT)
6:15 am to 6:30 pm (SUN)
United Airlines United ClubNear Gate 9Daily from 5:30 am to 8:30 pm

John Wayne Airport Restaurants in Terminals A, B, and C

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Restaurants at John Wayne Airport in Orange County
RESTAURANTS IN JWA TERMINALLOCATIONSPECIALITY
California Pizza Kitchen Gate 5 (Terminal A)California-style cuisine offering globally inspired flavors and quality ingredients with its signature hearth-baked pizzas, creative salads, soups, and sandwiches.
Carl’s Jr./Green BurritoGate 16 (Terminal C)Premium Qualify Burgets
Ciao Gourmet MarketGate 17 (Terminal C)Combination of great food, and packaged products for on-the-go consumption
Coffee Bean & Tea LeafGate 5 (Terminal A)Gate 16 (Terminal C)Baggage Claim (Terminal B)Delicious, handcrafted beverages including signature Ice Blended drinks
Farmer’s MarketGate 8/9 (Terminal A/B)Fresh Soups, and Salads generated from local California-sourced ingredients
Hobie Sand BarGate 12 (Terminal B)Known for recreating the Hobie Surfboard Co.
Jamba JuiceGate 13/14 (Terminal B/C)Refreshing smoothies, bowls, juice, or shots.
McDonald’s McCafeGate 5 (Terminal A)Gate 12 (Terminal B)Hamburgers, Chicken Sandwiches, Salads, French Fries, Soft Drinks, Breakfast items, and Desserts
OC PizzaGate 13/14 (Terminal B/C)Crust Pizza, Pasta, Salads, and more.
QdobaGate 13/14 (Terminal B/C)Burritos, Bowls, Tacos, Quesadillas, and Nachos
Ruby’s DinerGate 8/9 (Terminals A/B)Delicious Burgers, Crisp Onion Rings, Fresh Garden Salads, and Milkshakes
Starbucks CoffeeGate 12 (Terminal B)A menu of handcrafted beverages
Stella Artois Belgian Beer Bar Gate 15/16 (Terminal C0Modern Beer experience with Stella Artois, Hoegaarden, and Leffe Blonde from Belgium
Vino Volo Gate 9 (Terminal B)Various wines from around the world

John Wayne Airport Parking Facility

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JWA Airport offers on-site, and off-site parking facilities where visitors and passengers can park their vehicles with different parking options including Terminal Parking, Off-Airport Parking, Curbside Valet Parking, Cell Phone Waiting Area, Accessible Parking, and EV Charging Stations.

Hourly, or daily parking rates are applicable when using parking facilities are the airport.

JWA Suggestion: Please allow extra time to find parking as Terminal Parking Structures A1, A2, B2, and C tend to fill quickly. Additional parking options include Curbside Valet and the Main Street Parking Lot with free shuttle service.
JWA PARKING FACILITYAPPLICABLE CHARGEOPERATIONAL TIME
Terminal Parking$2 per hour$20 per day24 hours
Off-Airport Parking (Main St)$2 per hour$14 per day24 hours
Curbside Valet Parking$10 per hour$30 per day5:00 am to 11:00 pm daily
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Talking about the EV, JWA features a total of 61 EV charging stations where customers can park, and charge their cars in all four parking facilities at the Thomas F. Riley Terminal, as well as the Main Street Parking Lot.

JWA Parking Facility with EV Stations

PARKING FACILITYEV STATIONS
A1 ( Level 1)8
A2 (Level 1)9
A2 (Level 2)20
B2 (Level 1)8
C (Level 1)6
Main Street9

John Wayne Airport Car Rental Services

Both on-site and off-site car rental services are available at John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

Convenient rental services are offered by 8 rental companies at the JWA Terminal. The counters can be found on the Arrival (Lower) Level, between Terminals A, and B, across from the John Wayne statue.

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The pick-up, and drop-off section is located on Level ‘O’ of Parking Lots A2, and B2. Customers can use these services from 5:30 am to 11:30 pm daily.

Navigation Tip: Take the elevator down in parking structures A2, B2, or Ground Transportation Center to access level “0”.
ON-SITE CAR RENTAL COMPANIES ATJWACONTACT NUMBER
Alamo Rent A Car(888) 826-6893
Avis Car Rental(800) 633-3469
Budget Rent A Car(800) 218-7992
Dollar Rent A Car(800) 800-4000
Enterprise Rent-A-Car(800) 261-7331
Hertz Rent A Car(800) 654-3131
National Car Rental(888) 826-6890
Thrifty Car Rental(800) 334-1705

In addition to the on-site services, you can find various off-site car rental companies that are licensed to pick up passengers from the Ground Transportation Center, and shuttle them to their off-site location.

OFF-SITE CAR RENTAL COMPANIES ATJWACONTACT NUMBER
Fox/Payless Rent-A-Car(800) 225-4369 | (714) 874-5322
Go Rentals(800) 464-8267 | (949) 222-1900
Los Angeles Van Rentals(888) 452-8267
Orange County Van Rental(877) 826-7452 | (714) 549-2618
SNA Auto Rental(877) 342-4477 | (949) 251-0202
Stop-N-Go Rent-A-Car(888) 704-7867 | (949) 222-0100
U-Save Car & Truck Rental(888) 755-6664 | (949) 752-6664
United Auto Rental(888) 660-0101
United Van Rentals(877) 722-8267 | (949) 861-2453

John Wayne Airport Baggage Claim Phone Number

Baggage Claim at JWA Airport is located on the Arrival (Lower) Level of Terminals A, B, and C. Passengers can access the areas via escalator, elevator, or stairs.

JWA TERMINALBAGGAGE CAROUSELS
Terminal ACarousels 1, and 2
Terminal BCarousels 3, and 4
Terminal CCarousels 5, 6, and 7

To contact baggage claim, you can call customer service–(949) 252-5200 or Lost & Found–(949) 252-5140.

John Wayne Airport Customer Service Contact

Passengers can contact JWA Customer service via call, email, or TTY.

JWA CUSTOMER SERVICECONTACT INFORMATION
CALL(949) 252-5200
EMAIL[email protected]
TTY(949) 955-9153
LOST & FOUND(949) 252-5140

Discover the Closest Airports to John Wayne Airport

Long Beach Airport (LGB), Ontario International Airport (ONT), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Are the 3 major airports close to John Wayne Airport in Orange County.

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The following table shows the list of the top 8 nearest airports to JWA.

CLOSEST AIRPORTS TO JWAESTIMATED DISTANCE FROM JWADRIVING TIME
Long Beach (LGB)22.3 miles24 minutes
Ontario International Airport (ONT)41 miles42 minutes
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)41.5 miles41 minutes
Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR)52.4 miles48 minutes
McClellan-Palomar Airport (CRQ)57.6 miles52 minutes
Van Nuys Airport (VNY)58.5 miles55 minutes
San Diego Airport (SAN)85.2 miles1 hour 16 minutes
Palm Springs Airport (PSP)106 miles1 hour 45 minutes
Note: The distance, and driving time mentioned in the table are presented as per the calculation from Google Maps.
Related: Airports close to Disneyland California (SNA, LAX, and ONT)

Conclusion on John Wayne Airport in Orange County

John Wayne Airport is the only major airport in Orange County that offers a stress-free travel experience for all types of travelers. Various passenger, and cargo airlines operate regular flights to and from JWA airport connecting to major U.S. destinations and some international routes.

JWA offers a number of services, and amenities to enhance your travel experience. The airport is well-equipped to meet the needs of all types of travelers.

If you’re planning to visit Orange County, consider flying into John Wayne Airport, and experience the convenience, and comfort it has to offer.

After all, as John Wayne himself once said, “Courage is being scared to death…and saddling up anyway.” So go ahead, saddle up, and let John Wayne Airport take you to your next adventure.

FAQs on John Wayne Airport in Orange County

Is Orange County SNA the same as John Wayne Airport?

Initially identified as Orange County Airport, JWA was subsequently renamed in 1979 to John Wayne Airport as a tribute to the late actor John Wayne.

Why is Orange County Airport called John Wayne?

Orange County Airport was renamed John Wayne Airport in 1979 as a tribute to the legendary actor John Wayne. He was a famous Hollywood actor, and also contributed to aviation, and the local community.

What airport is close to John Wayne Orange County?

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is the closest airport to John Wayne as it is located just 22.3 miles away. Besides, Ontario International Airport (ONT), and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) are the other two nearby airports located 41 miles, and 41.5 miles away respectively.

What is the new airline out of John Wayne Airport?

Breeze Airways is the new airline operating flights out of John Wayne Airport. The airline debuted its services from JWA Airport with the first-ever ‘Orange County to Orange County’ flight, to Orlando (MCO).

Does John Wayne Airport have international flights?

John Wayne Airport offers international flights to Mexico and Canada. Southwest Airlines provides non-stop flights from JWA to Cabo San Lucas (SJD), and Puerto Vallarta (PVR) in Mexico. Likewise, non-stop flights to Vancouver, Canada (YVR) from John Wayne are operated by Air Canada and WestJet.

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Suman Karki
Suman Karki is the founder of the AviaTech Channel blog and YouTube Channel. He is a passionate aviation enthusiast and holds experience working as a Ground Operations Officer for Swissport International. He is currently serving as a Flight Data Feeder for FlightAware (a US-based company for Flight Tracking). Besides, he has worked as an aviation content editor for various aviation media.

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