Santa Ana, CA – In anticipation of the upcoming holidays, John Wayne Airport (SNA) offers the following tips to help travelers prepare for a safe and enjoyable holiday travel experience.

The air carriers at John Wayne Airport have indicated they are expecting heavy passenger levels, therefore, an early arrival of 2 1/2 hours or more before the flight may be necessary to complete check-in and security screening.

"The travel season is definitely upon us and due to the anticipated rush we strongly recommend passengers arrive at least two hours prior to their scheduled flight," 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 security screening.

• 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. The Main Street Lot opens at 4:30 a.m. and has the lowest daily parking rates ($1 per hour, $12 per day) with complimentary shuttle service to the Terminal every 15 minutes.

• Limit carry-on baggage to a minimum. 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.

• Do not wrap gifts that you plan on traveling with. All gifts that have been wrapped may be subject to search (both checked luggage and carry-on baggage).

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

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

• 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) rather than circling the roadway.

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

• Please check with your airline for updated flight information. Reconfirm 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.