Since receiving clearance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that the airspace at John Wayne Airport was open, four flights have departed today. Those flights were by air carriers Skywest, a commuter flight (10:57 a.m. reposition to Salt Lake City), Delta (12:30 p.m. to Atlanta), America West (1:08 p.m. to Sacramento), and Aloha (2:30 p.m. to Honolulu). America West received arrivals at 1:31 p.m., 2:05 p.m. and 3:20 p.m. American Airlines anticipates three arrivals in the 8:00 p.m. hour.

Deputy Airport Director, Operations and Security, Michael Hart, stated, "The goal of JWA is to provide a safe environment, reunite families, and reestablish what we have in this Country as the best aviation system in the world." It is anticipated that other flights, including cargo will go out later today.

Lt. Patrick Lee, Chief of Police Services for John Wayne Airport, assures the traveling public that security at JWA is at a heightened level. "Airport Police staffing levels have been increased significantly," said Lee. "In addition, the Hazardous Device Squad canine assistance and regular canine patrol will have an ongoing presence at John Wayne Airport."

All four parking structures at the terminal are open. Entrance is only permitted after vehicle inspections. It is imperative that travelers adhere to the following guidelines:

• Arrive at least two hours prior to flight departure to allow for parking, longer lines at check-in and at the security checkpoints. Vehicles parking in terminal lots are subject to inspections;

• Curbside check-in will not be permitted;
• Only ticketed passengers will be permitted through the security checkpoints;
• All knives of any kind or cutting objects will not be permitted through the security checkpoints;
• Be prepared to show photo identification; and
• Luggage should not be left unattended.

John Wayne Airport was officially open for business at 10:00 a.m. today.

For further updates, continue to check the John Wayne Airport Web site at www.ocair.com.