Bracing for a wave of joyous reunions and holiday getaways, Long Beach Airport is gearing up for an influx of nearly 170,000 passengers over the busy stretch from December 20 through January 1, according to a press release from the City of Long Beach. Holiday travelers are advised to allow extra time due to ongoing construction narrowing drop-off and pick-up lanes, leading to potential congestion.
In remarks made by the City of Long Beach, Mayor Rex Richardson assures that despite the construction mayhem, LGB remains a steadfast gateway to holiday destinations, with daily counts likely topping at over 13,000 travelers, Friday, December 20, Thursday, December 26, and Friday, December 27 are flagged as potential peak times when the airport's throughput will test its limits thanks to the snarled transit arteries.
To avoid congestion, travelers can use Barbara London Drive as an alternate route. Extra staff will be on hand to assist with curbside flow, and TSA will open security checkpoints at 4:30 a.m. from December 22 to January 4. With Delta, Hawaiian, and Southwest Airlines serving various destinations, passengers are urged to plan and allow extra time.
To ease the travel experience, Long Beach Airport offers not only new pick-up and drop-off options but also pop-up pickleball courts and live local music, adding a fun twist to the busy atmosphere. Parking is available with valet service near the Historic Terminal, and free Cell Phone Waiting Lots are located at Lakewood Boulevard and East Donald Douglas Drive for easy curbside connections. The airport recommends arriving 90 minutes early, especially for morning flights and suggests checking luggage rules and flight schedules in advance. Pet owners will find a designated relief area for their animals, as detailed by the City of Long Beach.
The infrastructure improvements, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, focus on better flow and enhanced accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges. Long Beach's coastal charm is reflected in its social media presence, keeping travelers informed through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
