AUSTIN -- Traffic for the holiday season is expected to increase 3.5 percent over last year, which means long lines at security checkpoints -- as well as a few travel headaches.
Officials with the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport have released a list of tips to help relieve the pressure, as well as a schedule of holiday performances happening at the airport this week.
Traffic at the airport is expected to start increasing on Wednesday, Dec. 19, and will most likely stay strong through Friday, Dec. 21. Here are some tips for a quicker travel experience:
- Arrive at your terminal 90 minutes before your flight is expected to take off.
- Allow time for yourself to get to the airport. Take traffic and weather into account.
- If you are picking up someone from an arriving flight, you can wait in the new cell phone parking lot.
- Check ABIA's website for flight status and travel updates.
- A fourth security checkpoint has been added to ABIA to help ease long lines.
- Do not wrap gifts because they may have to be opened during inspections.
- Carry-on luggage can only be one bag plus one personal item (purse, briefcase, etc.).
- Avoid wearing accessories or jewelry which contain metal.
- Remember 3-1-1 for liquids, gels and aerosols in your carry-on luggage. This rule means you can take liquids which are three ounces and they must be in a clear, one-quart bag.
- Make sure you have a government issued ID card.
For a list of banned or permitted items, click here.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is offering live performances at the airport for the holidays. Bands will play at the Asleep at the Wheel Stage from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Dec. 19-21:
- Dec. 19: Austin Jazz Workshop
- Dec. 20: The Judy Lee Dancers
- Dec. 21: Austin Square & Round Dancers
