Overview of Santa Maria Airport
Santa Maria Airport is a public airport located in Santa Barbara County, California. It serves the cities of Santa Maria, Lompoc, and other surrounding areas. The airport is located approximately 5 miles south of the central business district of Santa Maria.
The airport was originally established in 1942 as the Santa Maria Army Air Field during World War II. After the war, the airport was transferred to the city of Santa Maria and has since undergone several renovations and upgrades. Today, the airport serves both general aviation and commercial airlines.
The airport has one commercial airline, United Airlines, that offers daily flights to San Francisco International Airport. The airport also serves as a base for private and corporate planes, as well as aircraft used for agricultural purposes. The airport has two runways, one measuring 6,304 feet and the other measuring 2,854 feet.
In addition to its aviation services, the airport also serves as an economic driver for the region. It provides job opportunities for residents and generates revenue for local businesses. The airport is also committed to sustainable practices, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and implementing energy-efficient technologies.
Overall, Santa Maria Airport plays an important role in connecting the central coast of California with other parts of the country and supporting the local economy.
Terminals at Santa Maria Airport
Santa Maria Airport has one terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal has modern amenities and facilities that ensure a comfortable travel experience for passengers.
The terminal offers a variety of services, including food and beverage outlets, duty-free shopping, ATMs, currency exchange, and public telephones. There is also a help desk where passengers can get assistance with their travel queries.
Passengers can make use of the free Wi-Fi available throughout the terminal, which makes it easy to stay connected with family and friends or catch up on work while waiting for their flight. The airport also provides charging stations for mobile devices, making it convenient for travelers who need to charge their phones, tablets, or laptops.
There are numerous seating areas scattered throughout the terminal where passengers can relax and wait for their flights. The seating is comfortable, and some areas even have charging ports built into them, making it easy to charge your devices while you wait.
The terminal is wheelchair accessible, and there are designated parking areas for disabled passengers. The airport also provides special assistance to passengers with reduced mobility or any disabilities.
Overall, the terminal at Santa Maria Airport provides a comfortable and convenient travel experience for passengers. It is well-equipped with modern facilities and amenities, making it an ideal airport for travelers looking for a hassle-free journey.
Airlines and Destinations
The Santa Maria Airport is served by several airlines, offering both domestic and international flights.
Allegiant Air operates direct flights to Las Vegas, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. American Airlines offers flights to Dallas/Fort Worth and Phoenix, as well as connecting flights to other destinations within the US and beyond.
United Airlines provides non-stop service to San Francisco, with connections to other cities in the US and around the world.
In addition, Sun Country Airlines and Contour Airlines offer seasonal service to Minneapolis and Oakland, respectively.
It’s worth checking with each airline for any changes to their schedules or routes, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays.
Transportation Options at Santa Maria Airport
Santa Maria Airport provides various transportation options to visitors, making it easier for them to reach their destinations without any hassle. One of the most convenient modes of transportation is the shuttle service, which offers door-to-door pick-up and drop-off services to the visitors. The shuttle service is available 24/7 and can be booked online or at the airport.
For those who want to explore the city on their own, car rentals are available at the airport as well. With a wide range of car options from economy to luxury, visitors can choose according to their preference and budget. The car rental companies available at the airport are Hertz, Avis, and Budget. These car rental companies have a desk located in the terminal building, making it easier for visitors to rent a car.
Moreover, if visitors prefer public transport, shuttle buses are available outside the airport terminal. The shuttle buses run every hour, connecting to the Santa Maria Transit Center, where visitors can access different buses that run throughout the city. This option is ideal for those who are travelling on a tight budget.
Additionally, Amtrak train lines are available at the Santa Maria Airport. Visitors can book a train ticket online or at the airport and travel to various destinations across California, including Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Sacramento. The train station is located just a short walk from the terminal building, making it accessible for visitors with luggage.
Lastly, taxi services are also available at the airport. Visitors can book a taxi from the airport terminal or through an app like Uber or Lyft. This option is ideal for those who want a more personalized transportation service.
In conclusion, Santa Maria Airport provides various transportation options to visitors, from shuttle services to car rentals, shuttle buses, Amtrak train lines, and taxi services. With multiple options available, visitors can choose a mode of transportation that best suits their needs and budget.
Parking at Santa Maria Airport
Santa Maria Airport offers multiple parking options for travelers, including short-term and long-term parking. The airport’s main parking lot is located in front of the terminal building and provides easy access to the check-in counters and baggage claim.
Short-term parking rates start at $1 for the first 30 minutes and $2 for each additional hour, with a maximum daily rate of $15. Long-term parking is available in a separate lot, with shuttle service provided to the terminal every 10-15 minutes.
Long-term parking rates start at $12 for the first day and $9 for each additional day, with a maximum weekly rate of $49. The economy lot, located further from the terminal, is the most affordable option, with rates starting at $8 per day.
All parking lots at Santa Maria Airport are well-lit and patrolled by airport security personnel. In addition, there are designated spaces for accessible parking, electric vehicle charging, and oversized vehicles. Visitors can pay for parking at self-service kiosks located in each parking lot or at the exit booths using cash or credit cards.
Check-In Procedures at Santa Maria Airport
When flying out of Santa Maria Airport, there are several check-in options available to passengers. The airport offers online check-in through most airlines’ websites or mobile apps, allowing travelers to avoid the lines and check in from the comfort of their own home or office.
For those who prefer a self-service option, Santa Maria Airport also has kiosks available in the terminal. These kiosks allow passengers to check in for their flight, print their boarding pass, and even check luggage if needed.
For those who prefer a traditional method or have special needs, there are also staffed check-in counters available. Passengers can drop off any checked bags, receive their boarding pass, and ask any questions they may have about their flight.
Regardless of the method chosen, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the check-in process and allow for security screening. It is recommended that passengers arrive at least 90 minutes before their scheduled departure time for domestic flights and two hours before for international flights.
Overall, Santa Maria Airport provides a variety of check-in options to accommodate all passengers’ needs and preferences. Whether checking in online, using self-service kiosks, or visiting a staffed counter, the process is designed to be as convenient and efficient as possible.
Security Procedures and Tips
At Santa Maria Airport, security is taken very seriously. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) conducts security screenings to ensure that all passengers and their belongings are safe to board a flight.
To make the security process smoother, it is recommended to arrive at the airport early, have your ID and boarding pass ready, wear easily removable shoes, and place all liquid items in a clear plastic bag. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of prohibited items such as weapons and explosives.
Having a basic knowledge of security procedures and being prepared can save time and reduce stress during the airport experience.
Customs and Immigration Process at Santa Maria Airport
Arriving passengers must first present their passport and complete a customs declaration form. They may also be asked to produce proof of the purpose of their visit, such as a hotel reservation or invitation from a business.
After passing through customs, they proceed to immigration, where their passport will be stamped and their fingerprints and photo will be taken.
Departing passengers must present their passport and check in with their airline before proceeding to immigration. They will then have their passport stamped and go through security screening before boarding their flight.
It is important to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to complete these processes, particularly during peak travel times.
Amenities
- Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport.
- Food and beverage options including fast food chains, cafes, and sit-down restaurants.
- Retail stores selling a variety of items such as books, souvenirs, and travel essentials.
- ATMs and currency exchange services for international travelers.
- Baggage storage services for passengers who need to leave their bags for a period of time.
- Duty-free shopping for international travelers.
- Lounges for business and first-class passengers with complimentary snacks and drinks.
- Children’s play areas for families traveling with young children.
- Meeting rooms and conference facilities for business travelers.
Accessibility Services
Santa Maria Airport is committed to providing exceptional travel experiences to all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues. The airport offers a range of facilities and services to ensure that these passengers can travel with ease and convenience.
These facilities include accessible parking spaces, ramps, elevators, and wheelchair assistance. Passengers can also request specialized equipment such as ambulifts or boarding chairs. Additionally, the airport has trained staff members who are available to provide assistance and help passengers navigate the terminal.
Passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are advised to contact the airport in advance so that arrangements can be made to ensure a smooth and comfortable travel experience. Santa Maria Airport is proud to provide these accessibility services and remains committed to accommodating the needs of all passengers.
Connecting Flights at Santa Maria Airport
When catching a connecting flight at Santa Maria Airport, it is important to allow enough time for the transfer process.
First, check the arrival and departure gates and terminal information for both flights. Then, follow the signs to the connecting flight area.
If your bags are not checked through to your final destination, you will need to collect them and re-check them at the transfer counter.
Be sure to have your boarding pass and ID ready and check the departure time of your connecting flight.
If you have a tight connection time, inform an airport staff member or airline representative for assistance.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Santa Maria Airport, passengers should proceed to the baggage claim area located near the exit doors.
Baggage tags received at check-in should be used to identify luggage on the designated carousels.
If a passenger’s luggage is missing or damaged, they should immediately report it to the airport staff at the baggage claim counter.
A report will be filed and the passenger will be given a reference number for tracking purposes.
If the lost luggage is found, the airport staff will contact the passenger to arrange for its return.
For items left behind in the airport, passengers can inquire at the lost and found office located in the terminal building.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Santa Maria Airport has a team of trained professionals who are ready to respond 24/7. The airport’s emergency operations center is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to quickly and effectively handle any emergency situation.
The airport also has a fully-equipped medical clinic staffed with licensed medical professionals. The clinic offers a range of services, including first aid, emergency medical treatment, and ambulance services.
In addition to the on-site medical facilities, Santa Maria Airport has established partnerships with nearby hospitals to provide additional medical support if needed. These hospitals are equipped with advanced medical technology and staffed with highly-trained medical professionals.
Hotel Accommodations
There are various hotel options available within or near Santa Maria Airport. The first on the list is the Fairfield Inn & Suites which is just 0.3 miles away from the airport followed by the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites located 2.2 miles away. The Candlewood Suites Santa Maria is 2.3 miles away from the airport whereas the Radisson Hotel Santa Maria and the Historic Santa Maria Inn are both located 3.1 miles away. All these hotels offer comfortable accommodations, great amenities and easy access to the airport.
Useful Tips
Navigating Santa Maria Airport can be a breeze with these insider tips. First, arrive at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in, security screening, and boarding.
Consider packing light to avoid additional fees and expedite the check-in process. Make sure to have all necessary travel documents readily available, including your passport, ID, and boarding pass.
If you have time before your flight, grab a bite to eat or shop at one of the airport’s retail stores. Additionally, keep in mind that the airport offers free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected while you wait for your flight.
Lastly, double-check your gate number and departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process. By following these helpful tips, you can make the most out of your Santa Maria Airport experience.
Contact Information
– Customer Service: (805) 922-1726
– Lost and Found: (805) 922-1726
– Parking: (805) 922-1726 ext. 32
– TSA: (805) 686-4009
– Airline Reservations: Check airline website for phone numbers
– Airport Administration: (805) 922-1726 ext. 29
Other Airports near Santa Maria Airport
If you’re traveling to Santa Maria, CA, or have a layover at Santa Maria Airport, there are other airports in the area you can consider. Here are some of the nearby airports, along with their distance from Santa Maria Airport and transportation options.
- Santa Barbara Municipal Airport: Distance: 65 miles; Transportation options: rental cars, Uber/Lyft, taxi, Amtrak train
- Bakersfield Meadows Field Airport: Distance: 123 miles; Transportation options: rental cars, Uber/Lyft, taxi, Amtrak train
- San Luis Obispo Regional Airport: Distance: 25 miles; Transportation options: rental cars, Uber/Lyft, taxi
Before booking a flight to Santa Maria, be sure to check out these nearby airports to see if they have more convenient or affordable options for your travel needs.