Year-End Travel is Ready for Take Off at San José Mineta International Airport

Unwrap holiday surprises for an enjoyable Airport experience  

San José, Calif. – Anticipating a busy holiday season ahead, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is ready to welcome passengers traveling home – or getting away – for the year-end holidays. The peak winter holiday travel period is set to begin Dec. 15 extending over 13 days through Jan. 1.

“Holiday travel can be a hassle, even at the best Midsize U.S. Airport, as SJC was recently named by The Wall Street Journal,” said SJC Director of Aviation John Aitken. “For this winter holiday season, travelers choosing SJC should know that the secret for a stress-free journey is planning ahead for their trip.”

To enhance passengers’ experience during the year-end holidays, SJC will host festive programs in the terminals starting Dec. 15.

Musical Interludes
Passengers traveling between Dec. 15 and 27 will enjoy live music performances, including the Airport’s celebration of Make Music Day Winter on Dec. 21.

Happy Tails Parade 
SJC’s Therapy Animals are known for bringing smiles to the passengers’ faces. On Dec. 15, SJC is hosting Happy Tails costume parade, when passengers will be greeted by therapy animals in festive attire alongside their dedicated volunteer handlers. The complete schedule of events at SJC can be found here.

Airport Art + Technology
Travelers going through the security checkpoints in Terminal B can take a moment to admire the new lenticular prints on the Art Windows. The platform, which spans over 40 feet inside the terminal mezzanine display case, combines innovative technology and the artistic vision of local artists.

Autonomous Personal Vehicle
As part of a pilot program, three free autonomous personal vehicles for customers will run from Dec. 15 through Jan. 15, in both terminals. The devices, provided by San José-based tech start-up, Blueberry Technology, are meant to supplement mobility needs for those who do not want to use a wheelchair but may still want support navigating through the Airport.

Courtesy Carts
Starting Dec. 21 through Jan. 3, courtesy carts will be available in Terminal B for passengers who need extra help navigating long distances in the Airport, especially with all their holiday gifts in tow.

Plan Ahead for Parking 
Travelers can reserve and pay for parking online, as well as book a waterless car wash in the Airport's Hourly, Daily and Economy parking lots. Given the high demand during peak periods, parking reservations are strongly recommended. For parking inquiries, SJC's parking services team is available at (408) 441-5570.

Check-In Online and Arrive Early 
SJC recommends online check-in up to 24 hours before departure. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advises travelers to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international flights. Although savvy travelers know arriving that early is rarely necessary at SJC, the Airport recommends playing it safe – especially during the busy holiday season.

Pack Smart
In preparation for security screening, travelers should familiarize themselves with TSA’s travel tips and keep holiday gifts unwrapped for potential additional screening.

Speed Up Security with CA DMV Wallet (mDL pilot) and CLEAR
For faster security clearance, SJC travelers can download CA DMV Wallet, California’s first mobile driver’s license app, and enroll in the free and voluntary mDL pilot that offers a quick and secure identity-check at airports. At SJC, mDL’s are accepted in the TSA Precheck lane in Terminal A. Passengers can also enroll in CLEAR, available at both terminals. 

Accessible Services and TSA Cares
Passengers in need of extra assistance are encouraged to check the list of Accessible Services and the TSA Cares program for a tailored travel experience.

Use Cellphone Waiting Areas or Park for Airport Pickups
For airport pickups, SJC advises using Cellphone Waiting Areas or parking in the nearest hourly lot, as waiting at terminal curbs is strictly prohibited to maintain traffic flow.

Need more information before traveling through SJC? Contact SJC at info@sjc.org or (408) 392-3600.