THE EL TORO AIR SHOW : BEATING THE RUSH

Air show planners predict crowds of up to 1 million, so expect traffic jams on freeways and surface streets. Gates open on both days at 7 a.m. Beat the crowd by arriving early. Even better, take the bus from one of two shuttle pick-up spots.

TIPS AND INFORMATION

ADMISSION: Free. DAYS: Saturday and Sunday, April 25 and 26. TIME: 9:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., both days. GATES OPEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. May close earlier if parking lots fill, but pedestrians and cyclists will be allowed in. No exit between 3 and 4 p.m., due to Blue Angels flight. PARKING: Free. You will be directed to appropriate spaces. Lots fill fast, so arrive early. Be prepared for walks of up to one mile from lots to show area. SEATING: No bleachers. Seating on the grass and concrete in show area only. Bring lawn chairs and thick blankets. WEATHER PROTECTION: Hats and sunscreen are recommended to guard against sunburn. Blankets and jackets offer protection from wind. Show will be canceled if heavy rain occurs. BICYCLES: Allowed, but must be locked to fences in areas just inside the gates. FOOD AND DRINK: Drinking water available. Food, soft drinks and beer will be sold at concession stands throughout show area. Proceeds benefit military family-aid agencies. RESTROOMS: Portable facilities available, some wheelchair accessible. PHOTOGRAPHY: Use ASA 100 or 200 film for sunny days and fast shutter speeds for aerial shots. A 70-200 millimeter lens brings action closer. Film will be sold at the show. HANDICAPPED: Entry allowed through any open gate (with state sticker or plate). Special parking and restrooms available. The Friday dress rehearsal show is open to the disabled and senior citizens. Information: (714) 726-2100. LOST AND FOUND: Located directly behind the narrator’s stand. PROGRAMS: Published in Wednesday’s Los Angeles Times Orange County Edition. Additional copies available at the show. BANNED ITEMS: Skateboards, roller skates, coolers, pets (guide dogs excepted). VISUAL AIDS: Sunglasses to protect from glare. Binoculars will bring the action closer. SOUVENIRS: T-shirts, hats, pins, Desert Storm memorabilia will be sold at concession stands. Proceeds benefit military morale, welfare and relief agencies. INFORMATION: (714) 726-2100

WANT TO AVOID THE JAM? TAKE THE BUS The Orange County Transit District will run express shuttles from two centers. Service begins at 8:30 a.m. with departures every 15 minutes until noon. Fare is $2 each way for adults and children, $1.80 each way for the handicapped. (Dollar bills accepted, but change will not be given.) Buses will return immediately after the show, last return bus will depart at 5:30 p.m. Transit center parking: Santa Ana has no designated parking areas; Laguna Hills riders should park in the park-and-ride area. Those parking on streets or in private lots should check for tow-away signs. Call (714) 636-RIDE for more information. Source: Irvine Police Dept., MCAS El Toro and OCTD