MSP Airport Travel Rush Begins for MEA
The travel rush begins in Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport to MEA. FOX 9's Bill Keller has the details.
MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – The end of the work week promises to be busy Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airportas families journey during the MEA break.
What to expect
The annual MEA vacation begins Thursday for many Minnesota schools, and some families are taking advantage of the absence of school to go on vacation.
MSP airport is therefore preparing for an influx of travelers. Airport officials say Thursday, Oct. 17, will likely be the busiest day, with more than 52,000 people expected at TSA security checkpoints at the airport's two terminals.
The second busiest day is expected to be Wednesday October 16, with more than 49,000 people expected to pass through security checks.
If you're traveling via MSP, airport officials are reminding people that baggage claims, terminal loading areas and parking ramps will be busy. Travelers are encouraged to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight and three hours for domestic flights.
What they say
“Thursday is expected to be our busiest day of a busy week as more Minnesotans take advantage of the opportunity to fly during the MEA holiday,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which manages MSP. “We expect to see a high volume of passengers in our ticketing lobbies and corresponding activity along our routes for passenger drop-off and pick-up.”
How is the MSP prepared?
Ahead of the MEA pause, MSP airport officials are increasing staffing levels to assist travelers and reduce wait times at security checkpoints.
MSP has also opened an alternative pick-up and drop-off area at Terminal 2, accessible via the purple ramp.
Travel Tips for a Busy Weekend
MSP officials shared some tips for traveling during MEA Week and other times of the year:
- MSP passengers can reserve a free place in the security line via MSP RESERVE free of charge. Reservation times vary by terminal and availability is limited.
- Travelers can reserve parking online to guarantee a place and benefit from the lowest daily rates. Reservations must be made at least 12 hours before the scheduled arrival time.
- Terminal 1 travelers should check the waiting signs at checkpoints when entering the ticketing hall. Passengers can access all gates from either checkpoint, but the North checkpoint often has shorter wait times.
- During peak periods, drivers may go up or down to the departures or arrivals levels of Terminal 1 to pick up or drop off passengers.
- To reduce traffic in curbside pickup areas, drivers waiting for passengers are encouraged to use MSP cell phone lots on Post Road.
What is the MEA break?
The MEA Break takes place each October during Education Minnesota's annual MEA Conference, a one-day professional development event for the state's educators.
The MEA conference is free and open to Education Minnesota members. This year's event will take place October 17 at the St. Paul River Center.
Education Minnesota is made up of 477 local educator unions.
