Navigating travel delays can be a real test of patience, especially when you’re at a smaller airport. On a recent trip through Southern California’s John Wayne Airport, also known as SNA, I found myself facing a significant flight delay to San Francisco. With an unexpected three and a half hours to spare before boarding, the question wasn’t whether to leave the airport, but how to maximize productivity and comfort within it. Fortunately, John Wayne Airport houses a hidden gem for travelers seeking respite: the United Club lounge. Despite SNA’s compact size, the presence of a United Club is a testament to its importance as a high-demand airport in the Los Angeles region, particularly favored by business travelers. United Airlines recognizes this demand, operating flights to SNA from nearly all of its hubs, excluding Washington Dulles.
My ride to SF
Access to the United Club at John Wayne Airport is granted to:
- United Club Members flying with United Airlines.
- Air Canada Maple Leaf Club Worldwide members.
- United Club one-time pass holders traveling on United.
- Passengers connecting to same-day Business Class or Polaris Business Class flights on United.
- Star Alliance Gold members (excluding United MileagePlus Gold on domestic itineraries) traveling on United.
On this occasion, access was secured using a one-time pass, a valuable perk to leverage. It’s worth noting that United Gold status alone doesn’t grant access to this lounge on domestic routes, highlighting the value of a club pass or membership.
The United Club at SNA is discreetly located on the third floor, above the departures level. Clear signage opposite Gate 9 directs you to the lounge’s elevator.
Signage
United club
United Club John Wayne Airport hours of operation
Upon reaching the third floor, a small anteroom with seating precedes the lounge entrance, offering a moment of quiet transition from the airport bustle.
United Club entrance at SNA
The reception area features check-in desks and conveniently located restrooms just before entering the main lounge space. United lounges are generally known for their well-maintained restrooms, and this location upholds that standard.
United Club check-in desks at John Wayne Airport
Across from the check-in, a departure board displays United Airlines’ flight information for SNA, keeping travelers informed. A signature United Club touch – bowls of Life Savers candies – are readily available, a small but appreciated detail.
United Airlines departure board in SNA United Club
Bowls of Life Savers candy in United Club lounge
Star Alliance logo displayed in United Club lounge
The lounge itself opens into a naturally lit, open-plan space, reminiscent of the United Club in Hong Kong in its airy feel. This design choice is a welcome departure from enclosed, windowless lounges.
Open lounge area with natural light in SNA United Club
Beverage stations are conveniently positioned, offering juices, water, and lemon-infused water for refreshing drink options.
Juice and water selection at SNA United Club
A selection of bread, bagels, and spreads caters to those seeking a light bite.
Bread, bagels, and spreads available at United Club SNA
Oatmeal station in John Wayne Airport United Club
Opposite this station, a counter offers coffee and other hot beverage choices, ensuring caffeine needs are met.
Coffee and hot beverage station in United Club SNA
Various snack items are also available for quick nibbles.
Snack selection at John Wayne Airport United Club
Moving further into the lounge, the buffet area presents a selection of food options. Arriving during the breakfast-to-lunch transition, it was possible to observe both menus. The breakfast spread included a balanced selection of fruits, pastries, and yogurt.
Breakfast buffet selection at United Club SNA
The lunch offerings featured standard United Club fare: fresh vegetables, garbanzo beans, chilled pasta salads, and a spinach artichoke dip.
Lunch buffet with salads and vegetables at SNA United Club
Salad bar options at United Club lounge
Fresh apples on display at United Club buffet
The spinach artichoke dip, a lounge staple, was a comforting and warm option. Cookies and ham and cheese croissant sandwiches provided additional choices.
Cookies and spinach artichoke dip at SNA United Club
Ham and cheese croissant sandwiches at United Club buffet
A fully stocked and staffed bar behind the buffet offers a range of beverages, from soft drinks to alcoholic options.
Full service bar inside John Wayne Airport United Club
The lounge’s seating area is contained within a single, moderately sized room. Given John Wayne Airport’s scale and non-hub status for United, the size is appropriate. However, its strategic location at SNA, a preferred airport for business travelers seeking to avoid the congestion of LAX, makes the United Club a valuable amenity.
Main seating area of the United Club at SNA
The seating reflects the updated United Club design, ensuring a consistent experience across locations.
Comfortable seating in United Club lounge
High tables with integrated power outlets cater to those needing to work, a practical feature for business travelers.
High table with power outlets in United Club SNA
Variety of seating options at John Wayne Airport United Club
Beyond a partition, additional seating provides a slightly more secluded environment.
More private seating area in United Club SNA
Further seating arrangements include tables and chairs, accommodating different preferences.
Table seating in John Wayne Airport United Club
Additional chairs and seating options at SNA United Club
Looking back from the rear of the lounge provides a view of the entire space.
Overall view of the United Club lounge at SNA
In conclusion, the United Club at John Wayne Airport serves its purpose effectively. While not expansive in size or boasting extensive culinary diversity, it provides a comfortable and functional space for travelers. For those with complimentary access through status or membership, it’s a worthwhile amenity. However, paying for a day pass might not represent the best value proposition given its limitations. Ultimately, this United Club is a welcome haven within the convenient, yet compact, John Wayne Airport.
