Home » Long Beach Municipal Airport Daugherty Field (LGB) » 2021-11-22 Long Beach Airport Expects Increase in Holiday Travelers

Long Beach Airport Expects Increase in Holiday Travelers

Long Beach Airport Terminal
Contact:
Marlene Arrona
562.570.2674
Marlene.Arrona@longbeach.gov
Public Affairs
Long Beach Airport
 

Long Beach, CA – After a prolonged period of reduced passenger traffic, Long Beach Airport (LGB) expects to see a strong rebound during the Thanksgiving travel season from November 22 to November 28. Estimates indicate that passenger numbers will be five times greater than in 2020.

“These travel estimates indicate a strong economic recovery is on the way for our economy and for the Long Beach Airport,” said Mayor Robert Garcia. “Our airport is hands down the most convenient way to kick off your holiday travel. I encourage all travelers to remain vigilant, and if you haven’t already done so to please get vaccinated.”

Through its four airline partners, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines, LGB has approximately 86,000 scheduled seats during Thanksgiving week and expects about 75% of those seats to be filled. Though passenger numbers are approximately 10% lower than pre-pandemic 2019 activity, strong demand is expected throughout the remainder of the holiday season, in December and early January.

As airports across the nation expect a large increase in passengers, LGB stands out for its ease of travel. Ample, affordable short-term and long-term parking is located steps away from the terminal, with no need to take a crowded shuttle. Passengers can also enjoy the fresh air in the outdoor garden while they wait for their flight.

“We’re famous for an easygoing experience that makes us very attractive during the holiday rush,” said Long Beach Airport Director Cynthia Guidry. “Even during the busiest travel days of the year, we are confident we can deliver a stress-free experience that just might include a beverage of your choice by our outdoor fire pit.”

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recently installed Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units at LGB’s checkpoint, which further streamlines the security screening process. Travelers will only need to provide identification to the TSA officer and not their boarding passes. The CAT unit will automatically verify whether the traveler is prescreened to travel out of the airport for a flight that day.

LGB and its airlines are closely observing all health and safety protocols, including requiring face masks in indoor areas of the airport and implementing more rigorous cleaning standards.

For a smooth and stress-free travel experience, LGB offers the following tips:

  • Arrive early at the airport to allow adequate time to pass through security.
  • Check your airline’s baggage rules and verify flight schedules in advance.
  • Drivers waiting to pick up passengers are encouraged to use the free and conveniently located Cell Phone Waiting Lot at 3401 N. Lakewood Blvd.
  • Use the center median located in front of the terminal to access rideshare services such as Lyft, Opoli, Uber and Wingz.
  • Self-parking is available in Structure A and B; the hourly rate at both structures is $2 an hour with a maximum daily rate of $21 in A and $19 in B. Long Beach Airport Valet offers valet services and a complimentary car wash for $27 a day.
  • Download the free LGB Airport app, which provides information on arrivals, departures, parking and shopping.
  • LGB is committed to providing the best travel experience for all passengers. Accessibility information to help travelers with mobility challenges prepare for an easygoing experience is available on the LGB website.
  • Service dogs and pets are welcome at LGB and a relief area is available north of the terminal. Check your airline’s policies for traveling with animals in advance.
  • Packing properly can facilitate the screening process. Visit the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) What Can I Bring? website for details.

LGB offers nonstop service to 16 destinations across the nation including Hawaii. Learn more at www.lgb.org/destinations.

About the City of Long Beach 
Home to approximately 480,000 people, the multiple award-winning and innovative City of Long Beach offers all the world-class amenities of a large metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods nestled together along the California coast. As a full-service charter city, Long Beach is home to the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, several museums and theaters, a highly rated school district, Long Beach Airport and the Port of Long Beach. The City also has a highly respected university and city college, two historic ranchos, five hospitals, five golf courses, 171 parks, miles of beaches, marinas and bike paths.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit http://longbeach.gov/. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: FacebookTwitterInstagram and YouTube.

About Long Beach Airport 
Founded in 1923, Long Beach Airport (LGB) is the oldest airport in California. Among its many awards, LGB was named a Top 10 airport in the 2020 USA Today 10Best Readers' Choice travel award contest for Best Small Airport. LGB offers non-stop service to several U.S. cities while supporting a healthy general aviation community with more than 300,000 annual operations. The airport is also a source of substantial economic activity and employment, with the LGB Aviation Complex generating $8.6 billion in economic impact and supporting 46,000 jobs. LGB is a self-supporting enterprise of the City of Long Beach and does not receive local tax dollars. The Airport prides itself in preserving its esteemed historic legacy and maintaining a safe, sustainable and environmentally responsible operation. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @LGBAirport.