San José Mineta International Airport Prepares Travelers for Labor Day Weekend with Time-Saving Tips

Visitors to California’s top airport for on-time departures will have the chance to partake in National Aviation Week activities

San José, Calif. — With Labor Day the last major three-day weekend of the season, San José Mineta International Airport (SJC) is preparing for a busy holiday week as local travelers head out of town for one last summer getaway. The team at SJC has compiled top tips for smooth and stress-free travel.

In addition to SJC’s award-winning in-terminal dining and family-friendly amenities, Labor Day travelers will also have the chance to participate in the Airport’s first-ever sticker search in celebration of National Aviation Week. Now through Sept. 1, 2025, travelers can follow clues around the Airport to find 12 exclusive Ernie + Friends stickers.  

New retail and dining options at SJC this Labor Day:

• Nokki Farm is now open in Terminal A, between Gates 8 and 9. Offering an authentic taste of Southeast Asia, these freeze-dried tropical fruit snacks are sourced from small farms in rural Vietnam. This woman- and minority-owned company provides a healthy, shelf-stable and convenient alternative to traditional snacks — perfect for a quick snack or a gift on the go.
• Mighty Mallow Crispie Treats is now open in Terminal B near Gate 30. Operated by Provenzano Resources and founded by Bay Area entrepreneur Nicole Milliner, this woman- and minority-owned business gives the classic crispie treat a gourmet twist.
• Two retail shops at Gates 26 and 32 recently received a refresh and are now operating under the names “San José Essentials” and “SJC Essentials.” These are temporary concepts introduced by Paradies Lagardère as part of SJC’s new retail concession program.  
• Pizza My Heart and Einstein Bros.® Bagels recently opened in Terminal A, across from Gates 10 and 11, offering a delectable selection of pizzas, bagels, salads, sandwiches and more, designed to enhance passengers’ experience at any time of day.

Labor Day travelers at SJC can expect the usual ease and simplicity of flying through the Bay Area’s most convenient and dependable airport and are advised to:  
Remember REAL ID 
As of May 7, 2025, TSA no longer accepts state-issued identifications that are not REAL ID compliant at TSA security checkpoints. All airline passengers 18 years and older, including TSA PreCheck® members, must present REAL ID-compliant identification or another acceptable ID at TSA security checkpoints. 

Plan Ahead for Parking and Upgrade the Experience with Future Wash  
Now travelers can now book parking as little as two hours before their flight. Enjoy prime locations, flexible options, no added fees and the closest spots to the terminal – all while saving time by paying ahead. Then, book a waterless car wash in the Airport's Hourly, Daily and Economy parking lots. Given the high demand during peak periods, parking reservations are strongly recommended. For parking inquiries, SJC's parking services team is available at 408-441-5570. 

Check-In 
To streamline the check-in process during peak travel times, online check-in is recommended up to 24 hours before departure. Most airlines allow customers to pay for checked baggage in advance online, which speeds up the process at the ticket counter. Travelers with only carry-on luggage can skip the ticket counter entirely with online check-in.  

Arrive Early and Pack Smart 
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) advises travelers to arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours prior to international flights, and to familiarize themselves with TSA’s travel tips.  

Speed Up Security with TSA Precheck and/or CLEAR 
CLEAR now offers in-person TSA PreCheck® enrollments and renewals at the Terminal B Security Checkpoint, available Sunday–Friday from 4:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays from 4:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. No appointment required.

See Accessible Services and TSA Cares 
Passengers in need of additional help navigating through the Airport are encouraged to check the list of SJC Accessible Services and the TSA Cares program, and select the one that best suits their needs.   

Use Cell Phone Waiting Areas or Park for Airport Pickups 
Picking up family or friends? Skip the circling and wait comfortably in our new, larger Cell Phone Waiting Area.  Waiting at terminal curbs is strictly prohibited to maintain traffic flow. 

Need more information before traveling through SJC? Contact SJC at info@sjc.org or 408-392-3600.