(CBS Detroit)- Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is entering its busiest time of year, so they are passing on tips to vacationers so they can avoid delays through the airport.
It all starts with allowing enough time to get from your front door to your gate. This may be different for each traveler depending on how far you live from DTW, how many people you're traveling with, and what accommodations you might need along the way.
“Our highest wait time this time last year was 25 minutes for standard screening and 8 minutes for precheck,” said Reggie Stephens, TSA federal security director for Michigan.
These minutes could be the difference between catching or missing your Thanksgiving flight. The TSA suggests allowing yourself more time at the airport rather than spending more time at home during the nation's busiest travel period.
“For domestic flights, we recommend arriving two hours early. For international flights, three hours early,” Stephens said.
Every second counts, especially when traveling with children. A Canadian family shared with us their approach, particularly in the face of international borders.
“Coming from Canada, we come the evening before. This way we have no problems at the border and we are here with plenty of time. My husband and I delegate. He takes care of all the tickets, passports and that kind of thing I make sure he has everything he needs. Then I take care of all the packing, clothes, snacks and that kind of thing,” the traveler said. Canadian Nicole Golder.
Traveling alone can make things less complicated, but one passenger says that doesn't stop her from using technology to stay ahead of the curve.
“I check in on the Delta app. When I come here, I make my own bag tags. I try to fly alone as much as possible. And I just try to get here two hours early to be sure to be ready for the flight,” said traveler Suzette Sullivan.
If you're leaving the McNamara Terminal and the security lines seem long, try entering through the Westin Hotel entrance at the end of the departure drop-offs. The hotel has a security checkpoint and you do not need to stay at the hotel to go through it. The hotel's little-known entrance might save you a few minutes if you rush to your door.
