Santa Ana, CA – In anticipation of the nation’s most heavily traveled holiday weekend, John Wayne Airport (SNA) offers the following tips to help travelers prepare for a safe and enjoyable holiday travel experience.

Last year, almost 96,000 passengers passed through the Thomas F. Riley Terminal during the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend (Wednesday through Sunday). The busiest travel days are expected to be Wednesday, November 27 and Sunday, December 1. The air carriers at John Wayne Airport have indicated they are expecting similar passenger levels compared to last year.

"Planning ahead and allowing yourself adequate time to get to the airport, park, check your luggage and complete the screening process will ensure a smooth travel experience this holiday season," said Airport Director Alan Murphy.

Passengers are asked to plan ahead this holiday period and we encourage you to share these helpful tips with your readers and viewers:

• Arrive at the Airport at least 2 ½ hours prior to your flight departure to allow ample time for parking and to complete check-in and the security screening process.

• Terminal parking garages are accessible from the Departure (Upper) Level only. Be prepared to have your car searched by Airport Police Services.

• Terminal parking is available in A1, A2, B2 ($1 per hour, maximum $17 per day), as well as convenient curbside Valet Parking ($20 for the first 24-hour period or portion thereof. Rates for vehicles parked longer than 24-hours is $4 per hour, with a maximum of $20 each additional 24-hour period). The B1 garage is closed due to a construction project.

• The Main Street Parking Lot is more popular with holiday travelers and is usually full by Wednesday night or Thursday morning. The Main Street Lot opens at 4:30 a.m. and has the lowest daily parking rate ($1 per hour, $12 per day) with complimentary shuttle service to the Terminal every 15 minutes.

• Only one carry-on bag and one personal item (such as a purse, briefcase, laptop, diaper bag) are permitted through screening. All other bags or personal items must be checked-in as regular baggage.

• Place film in your carry-on luggage because new baggage screening equipment may damage undeveloped film.

• Do not wrap gifts, as they are subject to search.

• All carry-on items (including cell phones, lap-tops, and film) will be x-rayed.

• Only ticketed passengers will be allowed beyond the security checkpoints.

• Curbside parking is for the immediate loading and unloading of passengers only. No unattended vehicles are permitted.

• Visitors can help avoid roadway congestion by parking in the Terminal garages when picking up passengers ($1 per hour) instead of circling the roadway.

• Be prepared to show government issued photo identification when checking in for your flight.

• Please check with your airline for updated flight information and confirm your reservations 24 to 48 hours in advance.

For additional information, please visit the Airport’s Web site at www.ocair.com, or call 949.252.5200. For a complete list of items which are prohibited and permitted through screening, please visit the Transportation Security Administration’s Web site at http://www.tsa.dot.gov.