TPA in full swing for yet another busy Thanksgiving travel period

After last year's busiest Thanksgiving in Airport history, Tampa International Airport is gearing up for yet another high-traffic holiday travel season.

Nearly 80,000 passengers a day are expected to pass through TPA in this year's 13-day holiday travel period surrounding Thanksgiving, between Nov. 21 and Dec. 2. Passenger projections suggest the busiest days will likely fall on Nov. 24, the Sunday before Thanksgiving, when an estimated 85,724 passengers are expected to pass through TPA. The weekend after Thanksgiving is also expected to be extremely busy with 86,672 expected on Sunday, Dec 1 and 86,656 projected on Monday, Dec 2.

With the holiday surge of passengers converging on TPA, the Airport's parking team says some garages may reach capacity, so travelers are urged to book parking in advance on-line. The roof of the Short Term Parking garage suffered extensive damage in Hurricane Milton, but the Airport's team expects to have repairs made and the rooftop back open by the end of this week.

Guests who are using ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft for pick up are urged to use the Blue Express Curbsides to relieve congestion on the busy arrivals curbs.

Several construction projects to expand security checkpoints at Airsides A and E, along with the ongoing Shuttle replacement program, could lead to longer than normal lines. For that reason, passengers should continue to arrive at the Airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international travel. 

Below are some more critical tips to make one of the Airport's busiest times of the year a smoother experience for all.

PLAN AHEAD FOR PARKING: It is very likely that TPA parking garages could reach capacity at various points throughout the holiday season. For that reason, TPA is encouraging passengers to book parking online in advance of travel, where the Airport offers discounted pricing in the Short Term, Long Term and Economy garages. Online bookings also help TPA anticipate demand and manage its garage space availability, prioritizing those who have reservations.

CHOOSE EXPRESS: Traveling with carry-on luggage only and don't need to go to the Ticketing level? The Blue Express Curbsides are an easy alternative to the regular Departures and Arrivals curbs to get in and out of the Main Terminal more efficiently. Drivers can follow the signage to Blue Express for a much less crowded drop-off and pick-up experience. TPA’s Blue Express Curbsides are also where ride-share apps pick up arriving passengers on the Airport’s Blue Side. Passengers on the Red Side – where the Red Express Curbsides are currently under construction – can meet their Uber or Lyft outside of the Red baggage claim area.

ARRIVE EARLY: While most passengers can normally speed through the Airport and get to their gate in minutes, the holiday travel season and huge crowds can often lead to longer lines and unanticipated delays. For that reason, passengers are encouraged to arrive at the Airport no later than two hours before departure, or three if you’re traveling internationally. This year, the security checkpoints at Airsides A and E are under construction, meaning longer lines can be expected approaching TSA Security. While the lines move quickly, allowing extra time is always recommended.

CHECK YOUR POCKETS: Jams and jellies, cranberry sauce, gravy, bottles of wine and other Thanksgiving treats are commonly confiscated at TSA checkpoints, along with the usual prohibited items such as knives and firearms. To keep things flowing smoothly through screening, be sure to check your pockets and carry-on luggage before leaving the house.

SKIP THE LINES: You already know you’re going to need a snack or a caffeine fix once you get to TPA. Why not order ahead and have your latte or burger waiting for you when you arrive? Customers can use either Uber Eats or the Starbucks mobile app to order and pay, then swing by the counter and pick up the goods without standing in line.