The Salinas Municipal Airport: Access to Central California
Introduction
Serving the Monterey Bay and located between the Gabilan and Santa Lucia mountain ranges, Salinas Municipal Airport (IATA: SNS) is a regional general aviation airport in California's Central Coast. Located three miles southeast of downtown Salinas, the airport is a gateway to one of California's most fascinating economic corners and ideally situated for anyone looking to take in some awe-inspiring history, culture, or natural beauty.
Airlines and Destinations
The Salinas Municipal Airport does not currently have any scheduled commercial passenger service. It offers a variety of services, including private aircraft, charter flights, or air taxi services. Aviators and aircraft owners enjoy well-maintained facilities at the airport, providing access from various locations across America.
Passengers and Flights
The airport is used for general aviation and tourism; in 2014, Salinas Municipal Airport recorded 1,800 enplanements. Although it does not deal with the same volume of commercial flights as larger international airports, it is an important component in supporting local economic development and providing convenient air service for residents.
How to Get Here
Salinas Municipal Airport is located about three miles southeast of Salinas, adjacent to Highway 101. The airport is easy to get to by land, with appropriate signals and roads designed for drivers. The airport has two intersecting runways, 8/26 and 13/31, for those who come in by air.
Parking
Salinas Municipal Airport provides easy parking on-site for visitors. There are separate facilities for long-term and short-term parking, all with space to accommodate cars as well as larger transportation vehicles such as RVs or boats. The whole process is a breeze, and for anyone else flying, it's the most stress-free airport I have ever encountered, with parking being totally free.
Transportation Price
Salinas Municipal is a general aviation airport, so no public transportation services are available. This type of ground transportation is not possible for passengers, but if you are traveling to that city as a visitor, you can choose from rental cars or taxi services like Uber. Upon selecting an option appropriate for your needs, pricing will differ, with some providers and distance traveled on average. Each provider is centrally located, so transportation to and from the airport is easy to find and affordable.
Terminal Layout
The airport has one terminal building that contains the administration offices and pilots/aviation service area for passenger use. The terminal is easy to use, with simple layouts and signs that ensure all airport users have a stress-free experience.
Navigate the Airport
Salinas Municipal Airport is simple and easy to navigate; everything is within walking distance, thanks in part to its reasonable size. Directional signage will ensure visitors can easily locate the terminal, parking areas, and other key facilities upon arrival. The airport's team is also available to help and answer any questions that the travelers may have.
Getting Between Terminals
There is only 1 terminal at Salinas Municipal Airport, so you do not have to go through the hassle of navigating between multiple terminals. The main terminal building allows passengers and visitors direct access to all the airport facilities and services.
Services and Amenities
Salinas Municipal Airport is a general aviation airport providing services and amenities to pilots, passengers, as well as visitors of the field. These amenities include fueling services, maintenance and repair facilities for aircraft, as well as a pilot's lounge. The airport is also home to rental car access, allowing visitors mobility through the rest of Salinas Valley and beyond.
Restaurants and Shops
There are no on-site dining or shopping facilities at Salinas Municipal Airport; however, the city of Salinas is home to a wide variety of eateries and retail outlets. Nearby, visitors will discover a thriving historic district complete with antique shops and locally-produced crafts, in addition to superior award-winning wineries and unique boutiques, all just down the road from an international airport.
Security and Customs
Being a general aviation airport, Salinas Municipal's security and customs procedures are not as comprehensive or time-consuming as those at larger commercial airports. Yet, the airport has security measures well in place to safeguard everyone who enters.
Accessibility
Salinas Municipal Airport is pleased to offer accessible facilities and services for our guests with disabilities. The terminal building and its surroundings are accessible to disabled passengers with parking spaces, ramps, and toilets available for the differently-abled. The airport staff is making special provisions to assist people with disabilities.
Travel Tips
Here are a few important travel tips to consider during your trip to Salinas Municipal Airport.
- Book your flights during off-peak periods, steer clear of the busiest travel times by booking on midweek days or in the early hours.
- Get There Early: Give yourself plenty of time to work through the airport, check-in, and complete security procedures.
- Travel light: Reduce the weight of your baggage to speed up passenger loading.
- Get to know the airport layout: Review the terminal map and traffic flows of stations, FBO positions, or rental car counters.
- Go see the sights: While you're in Salinas, be sure to check out our historic downtown area and numerous award-winning wineries.