San Jose Airport

Introduction

Silicon Valley: At the heart of Silicon Valley, Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is a bustling transportation hub for Bay Area residents. It is the second busiest airport in the region and connects Northern California with nonstop flights to major cities around North America, benefiting Silicon Valley business travelers as well as leisure passengers seeking convenient access into the greater San Francisco Bay Area. Providing state-of-the-art facilities, as well as convenient amenities and an unwavering commitment to quality service at SJC, allow the airport to stake its claim as a leading gateway into San Jose itself, home to advanced communities in technology.

Airlines and Destinations

There are 23 airlines at San Jose Airport (SJC), and there is a non-stop passenger flight schedule of over 40 destinations in two countries. While big-name carriers like American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest already call the airport home, SJC's list of operators also extends to regional players such as Alaska Airlines (AS), JetBlue Airways (B6), in addition to international startup ZIPAIR.

SJC's longest all-nonstop route, between ZIPAIR and Narita International Airport (NRT) in Tokyo, is 3,194 miles. The flight is non-stop and has a duration of around 10 hours and 50 minutes, ideal as an option to give access through the ultra-long-haul market for those flying in from the Asia-Pacific region.

SJC, which has a range of domestic services, also flies to Mexico, such as Cancun (CUN) and Cabo San Lucas (Cabo SJD). Another link to the world... But while this natural connection was made by design, this is but one step of a strategic expansion that illustrates an airport truly dedicated towards growing its international footprint in line with greater connectivity and evolving passenger profiles.

Passengers and Flights

Number of Passengers

SJC is a growing regional airport that hosts tens of millions of passenger departures each year. In 2021, the airport experienced a sharp rise in air traffic with more than ten million passengers who passed through its terminals.

In response to this demand, SJC manages a robust schedule of about 150 daily flights, providing travelers with access to just as many markets throughout the U.S. and beyond. Strategically positioned and efficiently managed, SJC has become a destination of choice for business and holiday travelers looking for seamless travel with convenience in mind.

How to Get Here

Located just 4 miles northwest of downtown San Jose, SJC is accessible from several transportation centers and highways. There are a number of convenient ways for people to travel to the airport from different locations.

If you are commuting, it can help to save some costs while benefiting the environment. The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) also operates a light rail system, with its own station at the airport. The route runs every 15-30 minutes with a flat fare of $2 per ride.

Taxis and Rideshares: Passengers can hail a taxi at SJC's designated stands outside the terminal, or use popular rideshare services such as Lyft and Uber that also offer airport pickup/drop-off locations. The estimated cost for a ride share or taxi from the airport to the San Jose downtown area is $15 to $25+.

Private Vehicles: SJC provides several parking options for drivers visiting the airport, including both long-term and short-term lots with electric vehicle charging. In the economy lots, rates begin at $2 per 15 minutes for up to a day/$18 full day.

Parking

Parking at SJC Airport: The Various Parking Options That Are on Offer For the Diverse Needs of Its Passengers. The airport provides safe, clean, and excellent facilities that meet the requirements of even for a long journey or short travel.

The Economy Lot 1, located at 2300 Airport Boulevard, is the most economical parking lot on site and offers a flat rate of $18/day, making it an ideal choice for travelers needing to park long-term. Or the Hourly & Daily Lot 5 at 1661 Airport Blvd., which costs $2 every 15 minutes for up to a day, with a daily max of $30.

SJC also has electric vehicle charging stations available for those who value the ease and convenience of sustainable travel. Regardless of how you are flying into or out of the airport, they have a very friendly and warm system that is ready to help; from parking to arrival.

Transportation Price

Transportation to/from SJC Airport – Varies based on type of transportation chosen. Typical Prices:

• Light Rail: $2/ride
• Taxis: $15 to ~$25 to downtown San Jose
• Rideshares (Lyft, Uber): $15–$25 to downtown San Jose
• Parking:
  • Economy Lot 1 — $18 flat rate per day
  • Lot 5 (Hourly & Daily): $2 for the first 15 minutes, then a flat rate of $30/day

Flight prices are available at the time of publication, though airfare is likely higher for those with less convenient schedules; all information on transportation providers was corrected as accurately as possible.

Terminal Layout

The airport is divided into two main terminals – Terminal A and Terminal B, both of which are joined on the airside to facilitate easy connecting flights between gates.

Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines are the primary tenants of Terminal A; Southwest Airlines and JetBlue occupy most gates in Terminal B. The 2nd Terminal is the international terminal, while it may appear more business-oriented with less traffic (true, especially in the late afternoon), but it is the most intriguing to visit and explore.

The terminals include food and shopping outlets as well as free WiFi, power charging points, and comfortable seating areas throughout. The airport layout is clear and easy to navigate, with appropriate signage and wayfinding making it easier for passengers to track down their departures.

Navigate the Airport

SJC Airport is extremely user-friendly with an easy-to-read layout and clear signage. Upon arrival, passengers will find check-in counters and well-marked security checkpoints for each airline throughout the terminals.

Beyond security, the different gates, restaurants, and shops are easy to reach thanks to an intuitive wayfinding system. Passengers needing to make a connecting flight can transfer between terminals A and B airside, without going through security again.

SJC provides assistance to travelers with special needs, such as wheelchair help, service animal relief services, and accessible parking places for disabled passengers. Airport staff is available to help, including guiding and supporting travelers throughout their departure.

Getting Between Terminals

Because of the intelligent and convenient way SJC is designed, moving between Terminal A and Terminal B is an extremely quick process due to their close proximities along with a pathway perfect for walking.

The two terminals are just a few hundred feet apart from one another. The route is conveniently marked through pedestrian signs for passengers to move between the terminals, while utilizing a covered walkway to shield them from adverse weather.

The walk between terminals is usually 10 minutes or less, which makes it convenient for anyone with a connection to make. The airport also offers moving walkways and escalators to aid passengers in transiting easily, facilitating stress-free transfers.

Services and Amenities

SJC Airport aims to offer its travelers a wide range of helpful services and amenities. Whether it is free Wi-Fi and charging stations or a mix of food and retail offerings, the airport meets the needs of its passengers.

Other amenities include free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminals for passengers wishing to stay connected and be productive during their time at SJC. Furthermore, the airport has sufficient charging points for people to charge their electronics before heading out.

Dining options at SJC are plentiful, varying from fast food to sit-down restaurants for passengers in need of a filling meal. Foodies will be able to feast on local Californian and international flavors alike at any of the numerous dining establishments within, meaning almost no need for self-catering.

There are many retail outlets located in the airport, including a variety of specialty stores, news and convenience shops, as well as duty-free shopping, giving passengers the opportunity to grab any last-minute essentials or browse for souvenirs/gifts.

Restaurants and Shops

SJC Airport features a number of terminals where passengers will find the finest dining and shopping opportunities catered to all tastes.

Terminal A has a variety of popular eateries, including licensed locations from Starbucks and Peet's Coffee, as well as Andale Mexican Grill, Yankee Pier, and Firewood, which serves wood-fired pizzas and American favorites for heartier appetites.

Meanwhile, Terminal B's chef and dining options impress anyone with their stunning list, which includes Peet's Coffee, Jamba Juice, Andale Mexican Grill, and more. Moreover, a selection of grab-and-go snacks are available for offers or passengers on-the-go.

In addition to dining choices, the SJC terminals offer an array of retail destinations, including the international travelers' favorite, the Duty Free Store located in Terminal A. Passengers will find newsstands and convenience stores, in addition to a selection of specialty retailers that offer souvenirs & gifts as well as travel essentials.

Security and Customs

SJC is an international airport, with significant security and customs staff to protect all passengers.

At the airport, travelers will pass through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints and be screened using standard screening protocols, including removing shoes, belts, and other items, and having carry-on luggage x-rayed along with searches of personal belongings.

SJC is also the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) facility where passengers arriving by international flight clear customs and immigration. The CBP officers manning SJC process the identity and admissibility of all international arrivals, facilitating their entry to our country.

For the smoothest security and customs experience, SJC is advising guests to arrive two hours in advance of their domestic flight departure time and three hours before an international flight.

Accessibility

SJC AIRPORT SERVICE FOR PASSENGERS WITH DISABILITIES AND SPECIAL NEEDS JUNE 20, 2017 SAN JOSE The award-winning program established by the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is focused on delivering a welcoming experience for all travelers.

The terminals, facilities, and services at the airport have been engineered to serve passengers with a broad spectrum of ease needs. They include designated parking spaces, wheelchair assistance, and service animal relief areas in every terminal.

SJC provides a number of specialized services to those passengers who need extra assistance, such as:

• Support at Check-in, Security, and Boarding
• Restrooms with facilities and services for people in wheelchairs, as well as family-friendly amenities
• Quiet Rooms and Sensory Safe Spaces
• Assisted Listening Devices/Sign Language Interpretation

The airport also has trained staff to help passengers in need of personalized assistance for a seamless and stress-free journey throughout the main terminal, regardless of their abilities.

Travel Tips

Here are some travel tips for a smooth experience at SJC Airport:

• Plan Ahead: Arrive with plenty of time to check in and go through security (and customs if needed) so you avoid any last-minute panic.
• Check flight status: Keep an eye on your flight's status before you leave for the airport so that you can be aware of any delays or changes.
• Locate your way around the terminal: Study an airport map and signboards to plan where you are going and find key services.
• Travel light and right: Follow TSA guidelines for carry-on and checked luggage to make the security screening process a little faster.
• Take public transit: Use the VTA light rail or a carpool commuter service to cut out parking.
• Experience dining and shopping options: There is a vast range of food outlets both at the terminal and on flights.
• Keep in touch: Enjoy free Wi-Fi to work or play while at SJC.

When you do these tips, it can help make travel through Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport less time-consuming and more pleasant for everybody.