24
November
2014
|
05:00 AM
Europe/Amsterdam

TPA prepares for busy holiday travel season

November 24, 2014

(TAMPA) – Tampa International Airport will be busy this holiday season and travelers are advised to plan ahead.  Over the Thanksgiving travel period, the Wednesday before the holiday through the Sunday following, the airport is estimating close to 260,000 passengers, an increase of almost 8 percent over last year.  Wednesday and Sunday are expected to be the peak travel days with an estimated 60,000 people flying on each of those days.

If you’re traveling this holiday season, please observe the following:

Arrive early - The airport will be fully staffed and prepared for the extra volume, however, travelers should allow at least 90 minutes for the check-in and screening process to get to their gate for boarding.

Avoid curbside congestion when meeting arriving passengers - Avoid traffic congestion at the baggage claim curbside by using the Cell Phone Waiting Lot, where you can wait for an arrival with free Wi-Fi, restrooms, vending machines, and real-time flight information. To meet guests inside the terminal, use the Short Term Garage, which is free for parking under one hour.

Restrictions on liquids, aerosols and gels apply to everything in carry-on luggage including sealed food items and gifts -  Visit www.TSA.gov for the latest information on the travel policies including 3-1-1 and acceptable forms of identification.  Families with young children and infrequent travelers are advised to review the current guidelines posted on the TSA website for the latest information on screening procedures.