November 20, 1997

Thanksgiving Travel Tips

Santa Ana, CA – In anticipation of a busy Thanksgiving holiday, John Wayne Airport offers the following tips to help travelers reach their flights easily and on time. We encourage you to share these helpful hints with your readers and viewers.

Give Yourself an EXTRA 45 Minutes

Please arrive 45 minutes earlier than normal to park, ride a shuttle to the terminal, check your baggage and walk to the gate.

Try the Main Street Lot

Parking at the airport is limited during the holidays and with the East Parking Structure under construction this season, there are fewer parking spaces available for use. The East Parking Structure, located across the roadway from the terminal, is being expanded to accommodate nearly 2,000 additional parking spaces. Construction is expected to be complete in spring 1999. So for now, in order to park quickly and easily, use the Main Street lot located between Redhill Avenue and MacArthur Boulevard on Main Street. It is as easy as ever to park, catch a courtesy shuttle and reach the terminal in as little as 15 minutes.

Just Say "Valet It"

Travelers can also take advantage of the new Express Valet service offered from the Main Street Parking Lot. Just drop off your car and keys with an attendant, hop on an exclusive shuttle, and be on your way in as little as five minutes for an additional $5.00 a day.

Consider Alternative Transportation

Try a door-to-door shuttle service, taxi cab, bus or have a friend or business associate drop you off at the terminal and avoid parking altogether.

Don’t Forget

Clearly label your luggage; have photo identification available upon check-in; be prepared to have your carry-on and checked baggage inspected; and do not leave carry-on items unattended.

"We are doing everything we can at JWA to help travelers reach their destinations as quickly and safely as possible," said O.B. Schooley, Airport Director. "Planning ahead and allowing yourself adequate time to get to the airport, park, check your luggage, and get to your gate on time will ensure happy traveling this holiday season."

To find out more about parking or to obtain other JWA information the public may call (949) 252-5200 or look up the JWA web site at www.ocair.com.

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