Navigating the LGB Travel Rush

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is preparing for a surge of travelers this Thanksgiving week, expecting to welcome approximately 130,000 passengers between Nov. 22 and Dec. 1. This represents an 8% increase compared to last year and the airport marks it as one of the busiest seasons in its history.

Airport officials anticipate that Dec. 1 will be the peak travel day, with over 16,000 travelers projected to pass through LGB. Tuesday, Nov. 26, and Wednesday, Nov. 27, are also expected to be bustling travel days, with over 15,000 travelers anticipated daily.

These numbers reflect a substantial 32% average increase compared to typical November days at LGB.

This surge in air travel is not unique to Long Beach. According to AAA, an estimated 79.86 million travelers will travel 50 miles or more from their residence from Tuesday, Nov. 26, to Monday, Dec. 2.

This is an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to last year. Of the nearly 80 million travelers, 5.84 million will reach their destination via air travel, a 2.1% increase compared to the previous year.

Cynthia Guidry, Long Beach Airport Director, emphasized the airport’s appeal during the holiday rush: “Even during the busiest travel days of the season, we deliver a calm, cool and convenient travel experience. We have ample, affordable parking just steps away from the Ticketing Lobby and a relaxing indoor-outdoor concourse environment with palm trees, a fire pit and local shops and restaurants.”

To ensure a smooth journey through LGB this Thanksgiving, here are some essential travel tips:

Pre-Flight Preparation:

Early Arrival is Key: Aim to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure, particularly for morning flights, to allow ample time for security checks.

Baggage Check: Familiarize yourself with your airline’s baggage regulations and confirm your flight schedule in advance to prevent any last-minute surprises.

TSA Guidelines: Visit the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) website to review the latest guidelines on what items are permitted in carry-on and checked baggage. This will expedite the security screening process.

Traveling with Pets: If you are traveling with pets or service animals, locate the pet relief area north of the Historic Terminal. Additionally, check your airline’s specific policies for traveling with animals to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Navigating Ground Transportation

Utilize Cell Phone Waiting Lots: If you are picking up arriving passengers, utilize the two free Cell Phone Waiting Lots located at the northwest and southwest corners of Lakewood Boulevard and East Donald Douglas Drive. Remain in these designated lots until your passenger contacts you to inform you of their arrival at the curb. Avoid circling Donald Douglas Drive or waiting curbside, as this contributes to congestion.

Parking Options: Parking is readily available in Structures A and B. Valet service is also offered for added convenience, located at 4137 Donald Douglas Dr., just north of the Historic Terminal.

Terminal Roadway Improvements Project Paused for Thanksgiving Week

In anticipation of the increased passenger volume, LGB will temporarily halt its Terminal Roadway Improvements construction project during Thanksgiving week (Nov. 25 to Dec. 2). This decision ensures that all four lanes outside the Historic Terminal will be open, enabling smoother traffic flow.

The Terminal Roadway Improvements project, launched in 2020, is part of LGB’s ongoing efforts to enhance the passenger experience. The project involves repaving and realigning the roadway to optimize traffic circulation and improve accessibility for individuals with mobility disabilities.

These improvements are part of a multi-phase $125 million project and the roadway improvements are scheduled for completion in late 2024.

While construction primarily takes place at night between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. to minimize disruption during the day, with only one lane available during the late evening and early morning, the high volume of travelers anticipated during Thanksgiving week prompted the airport to pause construction entirely.

To add to the festive atmosphere, travelers passing through LGB during the holidays can enjoy live musical performances by local artists as part of the LGB Live! seasonal music series.

For any inquiries or further information, please contact Jose Cervantes at JoseC.Press@pm.me