San José Mineta International Airport (SJC)

Norman Y. Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) is a major public airport in Silicon Valley, California, operated by the City of San José. It features two terminals (A and B) and offers a comprehensive range of physical accessibility services. ADA-compliant and van-accessible parking spaces are available in all parking lots (Lots 2, 3, 4, and 5) on a first-come, first-served basis. All airport restrooms are equipped with accessible stalls, and all-gender restrooms are located throughout both terminals. Nursing rooms are available at Gates 18, 21, 24, and 26 and near Gate 8, each equipped with benches or chairs, sinks, changing stations, and outlets. All airport shuttle buses operating between terminals and parking facilities are wheelchair accessible with ramps or lifts. Drivers with disabilities needing extra curb time may notify uniformed airport traffic staff. Service animals are fully supported, with four designated relief areas — three outside (pre-security) and one inside between Gates 16 and 17 (post-security).

SJC participates in the Sunflower Lanyard Program, in collaboration with the California State Council on Developmental Disability (SCDD), through which airport staff are trained to identify and discreetly assist travelers with hidden or less visible disabilities such as autism, hearing loss, low vision, anxiety disorders, and epilepsy. Lanyards are available free of charge at airline check-in counters and airport information booths. The airport also participates in TSA Cares, providing additional support through the security screening process. A new sensory-friendly room called The Nest, created in partnership with Nutanix and the Children’s Discovery Museum of San José, is planned to open between Terminals A and B to serve neurodivergent travelers. Wheelchair assistance must be pre-arranged through individual airlines, and wheelchair-accessible taxi and shuttle vehicles are available from permitted operators at both terminals.

Visitors report that the airport’s layout is compact and straightforward to navigate, and that airport information booth volunteers are helpful for passengers with general queries. Some visitors note that the Sunflower Lanyard is a practical tool for those with less visible needs, and that TSA staff are generally responsive to passengers with disabilities.