John Wayne Airport Enhances Travel Experience for Families with New and Inclusive Amenities

"Flying can often be a stressful experience, but these amenities offer families relief and comfort," said Chair Doug Chaffee, Fourth District. "Our airport team is always looking for new ways to provide our travelers a convenient and smooth journey to their destination."

Whether guests are flying with young children, caring for a loved one, or seeking added convenience, John Wayne Airport offers thoughtful solutions to make the travel experience safer, easier, and more inclusive.

"As a mom who nursed two babies, I know the stress of traveling when babies get hungry. Not everyone feels comfortable nursing in public, and layering in cover up blankets gets hot for babies and moms," said Vice Chair Katrina Foley, Fifth District. "I'm excited that we now offer a private, clean, comfortable space for moms to nurse before flights at JWA to reduce the chaos of traveling with kids."

Supervisor Foley added, "I'm also thrilled to announce that JWA will implement a new expedited Family Lane to its TSA operations, ensuring new families can make it through security without delays. True to our county values, these enhancements in airport security screening ensure we're putting families first during the busy summer travel season and beyond."

JWA offers a growing list of innovative amenities and services that put people first and help create a smooth, enjoyable journey from curb to gate.

Family-Friendly Highlights at John Wayne Airport:

• TSA Family Screening Lane
A dedicated lane at the Terminal B security checkpoint for families traveling with children, strollers, and special items such as formula and car seats. This amenity is part of TSA's Families on the Fly campaign to ease stress and streamline the screening experience for parents and children.

• Children's Play Area
Inspired by Orange County's coastal charm, the play space is located post-security, near Gate 11, and features interactive elements like a lifeguard tower, sea lion, sandcastle, and surfboard, all made of soft-play material for safe exploration.

• Mamava Lactation Pod
Located pre-security, across Baggage Carousel 6 in Terminal C, this self-contained, secure, and private pod provides an additional option for nursing parents on the go. The Mamava pod is ADA-accessible, features adjustable lighting and ventilation, and is available via the Mamava app.

• Nursing Mother's Lounge
This is a quiet, private space for traveling mothers to nurse or pump. Located in Terminal B between Gates 11 and 12, adjacent to the Children's Play Area, the lounge includes comfortable seating, a changing table, a sink, and dimmable lighting designed for comfort and convenience.

• Universal Changing Table
Located in the Family Restroom near the play area, this full-size changing station supports caregivers of all ages and abilities, supporting JWA's commitment to dignity and accessibility for all guests.

• Multi-Faith Prayer Space
A new multi-faith prayer space recently opened in Terminal C near Gate 22. This thoughtfully designed area offers a quiet, respectful setting for travelers of all faiths and backgrounds to reflect, meditate, or pray.

County leadership has voiced strong support for the family-focused services and inclusive resources now available at John Wayne Airport, recognizing their value in enhancing the travel experience for all guests.

"Orange County has the most passenger-friendly airport anywhere," stated Supervisor Nguyen, First District. "So proud to see us step up our game another notch."

"I am glad to see our Airport moving toward becoming more people and family-centered, with a focus on providing amenities that serve the needs of all travelers. It is my hope that future improvements will reflect the diversity of our county and continue to develop an inclusive environment for residents and visitors alike," said Supervisor Sarmiento, Second District.

"John Wayne Airport has always been a welcoming space for people from all over the world," said Supervisor Don Wagner, Third District. "Now, with these new family-friendly amenities, Orange County's world-class airport will be even more accessible and accommodating to travelers."

These new amenities complement ongoing efforts at John Wayne Airport, including the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), focused on strengthening infrastructure through continuous upgrades, facility improvements, and services that reflect guest needs.

"At John Wayne Airport, we believe a great travel experience starts with putting people first," said Charlene Reynolds, Airport Director. "From family-friendly amenities to inclusive design and collaborative programs like TSA's Families on the Fly, we're proud to offer services that support every guest."

For more information about traveling through John Wayne Airport and our family-focused amenities, visit www.ocair.com.