Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport
San Jose, United States · Since 1945
Last updated:
About SJC
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) is a major airport in the heart of Silicon Valley, serving the greater San Jose metropolitan area and the southern San Francisco Bay Area. Named after Norman Y. Mineta, a former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and San Jose mayor, the airport is a convenient alternative to SFO and OAK for travelers visiting the tech hub of the world. It serves as a focus city for Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines.
Why "SJC"?
SJC stands for San Jose, California. The "C" differentiates it from other San Jose airports worldwide (e.g., SJO in Costa Rica).
Airlines Operating
Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Volaris, British Airways, ANA, Lufthansa
Terminals
Terminal A
Serves Southwest Airlines exclusively. Features a spacious open layout with abundant natural light and Silicon Valley-themed artwork. Recently updated concession options.
Terminal B
Serves all other airlines including Alaska, Delta, American, United, and international carriers. Houses international arrivals and customs. Features the Alaska Lounge and improved dining options.
Minimum Connection Times (MCT)
Airlines at SJC
Alaska Airlines
Terminal B
Southwest Airlines
Terminal A
American Airlines
Terminal B
Delta Air Lines
Terminal B
Frontier Airlines
Hawaiian Airlines
United Airlines
Terminal B
Volaris
Showing 8 of 9 airlines. View all airlines →
Getting There & Away
VTA Bus Route 60 connects to Metro/Airport Light Rail Station. Free Airport Flyer shuttle to Santa Clara Caltrain/BART station. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft available at designated pickup areas. South Bay shuttle services to surrounding cities.
Taxi
$15-20 to downtown San Jose
10-15 minutes to city center
Public Transport
$2.50 (VTA)
20-30 minutes to downtown to city center
Parking at SJC
Short-term from $4/30min, long-term from $20/day. Economy lot from $15/day with free shuttle....
Hourly Parking Garage
Daily Parking Lot
Economy Parking Lot 6
Airport Lounges
Alaska Lounge
Terminal B
Modern lounge in Terminal B with craft beer and wine bar, hot breakfast, soup, and snacks. Features Silicon Valley tech-inspired decor and ample workspace with power outlets.
Delta Sky Club
Terminal B
Compact but well-appointed lounge offering Delta's standard food and beverage service. Craft cocktails and local California wines available.
Where to Stay
Nearby Hotels
DoubleTree by Hilton San Jose Airport
Across Airport Blvd from terminals, 3-minute shuttle ride
Full-service hotel with free airport shuttle, outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. Popular with business travelers visiting Silicon Valley companies.
Hilton San Jose
Downtown San Jose, 10 minutes from airport
Upscale downtown hotel connected to the San Jose Convention Center. Great for combining business travel with city exploration.
Food & Dining
Peet's Coffee
Coffee & Bakery
Terminal A (Airside)
Bay Area coffee institution serving freshly roasted coffee, espresso drinks, and pastries. A Silicon Valley staple since 1966.
4:30 AM - 8:00 PM
Sam's Chowder Mobile
Seafood
Terminal B (Airside)
Satellite location of the famous Half Moon Bay restaurant. Known for clam chowder in a bread bowl, lobster rolls, and fresh seafood.
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Vino Volo
Wine Bar & Small Plates
Terminal B (Airside)
Upscale wine bar offering curated California and international wines by the glass, paired with artisan cheese boards and charcuterie.
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Car Rental
Hertz
Rental Car Center, 2050 Airport Blvd
Located at the consolidated Rental Car Center with free shuttle. Book online for best rates in the Bay Area.
Budget
Rental Car Center, 2050 Airport Blvd
Good value option at the Rental Car Center. Same shuttle as all other rental companies.
Avis
Rental Car Center, 2050 Airport Blvd
Premium selection available including Tesla and luxury vehicles — popular with Silicon Valley visitors.
What to Do During a Layover
Explore the City
These activities require leaving the airport. Make sure you have valid visa and enough time before your next flight.
San Jose Museum of Art
Modern and contemporary art museum in downtown San Jose. Features rotating exhibitions and a permanent collection of 20th and 21st century works.
Santana Row Shopping & Dining
Upscale outdoor shopping and dining district 10 minutes from SJC. Features designer boutiques, excellent restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Free to browse.
The Tech Interactive Museum
Hands-on science and technology museum in downtown San Jose, just 10 minutes from the airport. Features exhibits on robotics, virtual reality, and Silicon Valley innovation.
Practical Information
WiFi & Connectivity
- Free WiFi: Yes (Unlimited)
- Speed Rating: ●●●●○
- Power Outlets: Type A/B (US), USB at most gates
- SIM Cards: Available for purchase
Services
- Medical Services: Available
- Prayer Rooms: Available
Family Facilities
- Children's Play Areas
- Nursing Rooms
- Family Restrooms
- Pet Relief Areas
Money & Currency
- Currency: USD (US Dollar)
- Exchange: Travelex in Terminal B (International Arrivals)
- Hours: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
- Tipping: Tipping is expected. 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per bag for porters, 15-20% for taxis.
Better rates available at banks in downtown San Jose or use ATMs for cash withdrawal.
Smoking Areas
No indoor smoking. Designated outdoor areas outside each terminal before security.
Lost & Found
- Phone: +1 408-392-3640
Contact airport lost and found office or check with your airline for items left on aircraft.
Entry Requirements
Visa Information
ESTA required for Visa Waiver Program countries ($21). Others need a pre-approved visa.
Valid passport and ESTA or visa for international travelers. US domestic passengers need valid government-issued ID.
When to Fly
Best time: March-May and September-November for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
Peak seasons: Major tech conferences (CES overflow, Google I/O), summer months, holiday season
Insider Tips
SJC is one of the easiest Bay Area airports to navigate — much less crowded than SFO. TSA PreCheck lines are usually very short. The airport is close to downtown San Jose, making it ideal for Silicon Valley business travelers. Parking is plentiful and reasonably priced compared to SFO.
Facilities & Contact
Airport Facilities
Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Pet relief areas in both terminals. Nursing rooms. Family restrooms. Post-security art exhibits. Charging stations at most gates.
Official Website
Phone
+1 408-392-3600
Traveler Reviews
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Compare with Nearby Airports
See how SJC compares to other major airports in the region.
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport
San Jose, United States
Oakland International Airport
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San Francisco International Airport
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