Preparing for the Holiday Rush
The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is gearing up for the holiday season, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipating a significant increase in air travel. As Thanksgiving approaches, the airport is preparing for the expected surge in passengers, with a focus on ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. Key statistics: + 18 million people expected to be screened by TSA + Peak travel days: November 20-22 and November 27-29 + Average wait times: 30-45 minutes
Security Measures
To address the anticipated increase in passengers, the TSA has implemented various security measures to minimize wait times and ensure a seamless experience. Some of these measures include:
Airport Preparations
The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport is also taking steps to prepare for the holiday season. Some of the airport’s preparations include:
“You don’t want to be that person who has to pay extra for checked bags or deal with the hassle of gate-checking.”
Holiday Travel Tips from ROA
Pre-Flight Preparations
Before you even step foot in the airport, there are a few things you can do to make your holiday travel experience smoother. Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Make a list of essentials to pack, such as medication, chargers, and travel documents. Consider packing a portable charger to keep your devices charged throughout the flight.
Airport Security and Check-In
Once you arrive at the airport, follow these tips to make the security and check-in process as seamless as possible. Arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare, at least 2 hours before your flight. Wear easy-to-remove shoes and avoid wearing anything with metal to make the security process faster. Keep your laptop and liquids in a separate bin for easy screening.
The airport’s new terminal is expected to open in 2024, and it will feature a new, more efficient check-in process.
Understanding the Airport’s Changes
The airport has undergone significant changes in recent years, with a focus on improving the passenger experience.
The complete list of travel tips from ROA can be found here along with TSA’s 2024 travel and packing tips here.