Holiday travel rush begins in Minnesota
Fliers were out Tuesday, trying to get ahead of the Thanksgiving travel rush.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers helpful tips and reminders to travelers at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) before a busy holiday season.
It's that time of year when millions of people are preparing to travel for the holidays, with what could be a record number of travelers heading to airports and hitting the road. Although traveling can be stressful, TSA officials have shared some helpful tips to ensure travelers at MSP Airport are prepared to pass through security safely and efficiently.
LEARN MORE: MSP Airport Expects 10% More Travelers During Thanksgiving Season
Arrive early at the airport
TSA Federal Security Director for Minnesota Marty Robinson said that since May, the TSA and MSP airport has experienced its 10 busiest days on record, and this week is no different .
Wednesday could be a potentially record day with around 50,000 people expected in Terminal 1 and 16,000 people visiting Terminal 2.
LEARN MORE: Minnesota Weather: Here's Your Thanksgiving Travel Forecast
Travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight to ensure they have sufficient time to go through the check-in and security process.
The airport is likely to be busiest on Wednesday from 4:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. and again from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., while the same times are expected to be busy on Sunday and Monday.
Going through security
To help clear the security line, travelers are encouraged to check their carry-on baggage for any prohibited items before heading to the airport. A list of articles can be found online here.
“An important thing to do is to unpack your luggage before packing. Make sure there are no prohibited items in your luggage that could be left behind or cause a delay for you and any other passengers “Robinson said.
Authorities remind travelers that weapons, including firearms and knives, are not allowed through security. However, firearms are permitted in checked baggage if they are enclosed in a hard case, the ammunition is kept separately, and it has been declared to the airline.
TSA Travel Tips at MSP Airport Press Conference (RAW)
TSA Federal Security Director for Minnesota Marty Robinson offers holiday travel tips ahead of a busy travel season in the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.
