Airport Code: SNA
Location: 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, California
Date Opened: 1923 (originally Eddie Martin Airport, renamed in 1979 to honor actor John Wayne)
Size: 500 acres, with three terminals (Terminals A, B, and C). There are 22 gates and two runways. Its main commercial runway is 5,701 feet—shorter than most major airports.
Transportation: Rental car services are located on-site. Uber and Lyft pick-up areas are available outside baggage claim. The Orange County Bus Route 76 serves the airport. Travelers can also take Metrolink or Amtrak from nearby Irvine or Santa Ana stations. The airport is accessible via the I-405 and State Route 55.
On-Site Facilities: John Wayne Airport (SNA) has a variety of dining options, including fast-casual and sit-down restaurants, plus coffee shops. There are shops for travel essentials, electronics, and souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi and charging stations are provided throughout the terminals. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR lanes provide expedited security screening. Additionally, the airport has pet relief areas.
Fun Fact 1: Due to strict noise restrictions, SNA has one of the steepest commercial airline takeoffs in the U.S.
Fun Fact 2: SNA is the only commercial airport in Orange County and is a preferred alternative to Los Angeles International Airport for travelers headed to Disneyland Resort and convention centers in Anaheim and Long Beach.
Website: www.ocair.com
This story originally appeared in the Q2 2025 issue of Exhibit City News, p. 38. For original layout, visit https://issuu.com/exhibitcitynews/docs/exhibit_city_news_-_apr_may_jun_2025/38.
