Air travel in 2025 is faster, more efficient, and increasingly digital—but one thing that remains a concern for travelers is time spent in airport security lines. At John Wayne Airport, known for its convenience and manageable size, passengers still encounter delays during busy hours. If you’re looking to minimize John Wayne Airport security wait times, a little planning can go a long way.

Know the Peak Hours

Before you even book your flight, try to understand the flow of passengers at the airport. John Wayne Airport security wait times typically spike during early morning hours (5 a.m. to 9 a.m.) and late afternoons (4 p.m. to 7 p.m.), especially on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays. By flying outside of these peak periods, you’re more likely to move through security with minimal delay.

Use Real-Time Updates

Technology is your best friend when it comes to saving time. In 2025, most travelers use apps like MyTSA, FlightAware, or the official John Wayne Airport mobile app to check live John Wayne Airport security wait times. These tools give accurate estimates based on current conditions, so you can time your airport arrival more precisely and avoid unnecessary waiting.

Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR

If you fly more than a few times a year, consider enrolling in a trusted traveler program. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR remain the most effective ways to speed through security in 2025. With TSA PreCheck, you can often bypass the longer standard lines, keeping your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. CLEAR uses biometric scanning, allowing you to skip the ID check entirely. Both options are available at John Wayne Airport and significantly cut down on John Wayne Airport security wait times.

Be Prepared at the Checkpoint

You’d be surprised how much time is lost at security because travelers aren’t prepared. In 2025, rules still require you to separate electronics and liquids if you're not in a PreCheck line. Make sure items are easily accessible in your carry-on. Also, wear slip-on shoes and avoid clothing with metal to breeze through screening. A prepared traveler helps reduce John Wayne Airport security wait times for everyone.

Choose the Right Terminal and Entrance

John Wayne Airport has multiple security checkpoints depending on your airline and terminal. Occasionally, one entrance may be less crowded than the other. Airport staff or digital signs may indicate shorter lines elsewhere in the terminal. Spending an extra minute walking to a different checkpoint could save you 15 minutes in line.

Fly During Off-Peak Seasons

If your schedule is flexible, avoid traveling during holidays, spring break, or major events. Flying in mid-January, early May, or late September usually results in quicker processing times and lower John Wayne Airport security wait times.

Final Thoughts

Reducing John Wayne Airport security wait times in 2025 is all about planning ahead and making smart travel choices. By flying at non-peak times, using tech tools, enrolling in trusted programs, and arriving prepared, you’ll move through security faster and start your journey stress-free. A little effort now means a smoother travel day later.