Holiday Travel Tips from Long Beach Airport

Thanksgiving is expected to bring one of the busiest holiday seasons in the history of Long Beach Airport (LGB). An estimated 130,000 passengers are expected to move through LGB during the 10-day holiday period from Friday, Nov. 22, through Sunday, Dec. 1, an 8% increase from last year. Here are a few tips to make the experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Credit: Long Beach Airport

BUSIEST DAYS

Dec. 1 is expected to be Long Beach Airport’s (4100 Donald Douglas Dr) busiest travel day with more than 16,000 travelers. Tuesday, Nov. 26, and Wednesday, Nov. 27, will also be some of the busiest days of the season with more than 15,000 travelers anticipated to pass through the airport each day. These passenger numbers are estimated to be about 32% higher on average than a typical November day at LGB.

DROPPING OFF/PICKING UP

  • Arrive 90 minutes early, especially for morning flights, to allow adequate time to pass through security.
  • For drivers picking up passengers, wait in one of two free Cell Phone Waiting Lots, located on the northwest and southwest corners of Lakewood Boulevard and East Donald Douglas Drive, until your passenger calls to let you know they are ready on the curb. Circling around Donald Douglas Drive or waiting at the curb increases congestion for everyone.

PARKING

  • Parking is available in Structures A and B and valet service is conveniently located at 4137 Donald Douglas Dr., just north of the Historic Terminal.
  • Due to the large number of travelers, LGB will pause its Terminal Roadway Improvements construction project during Thanksgiving week so that all lanes will remain open. More information is available at www.LGBRoadImprovements.com.

CHECKING IN

  • Check your airline’s baggage rules and verify flight schedules in advance.
  • Packing properly can facilitate the screening process, so visit the Transportation Security Administration's What Can I Bring? website for details.
  • Travelers with pets and service animals should note the location of the relief area north of the Historic Terminal and check their airline’s policies for traveling with animals in advance.
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About the Author
Steve Lowery
Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.
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