GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KJCT) – With Thanksgiving just a week away, airports are preparing for a significant increase in travelers. Airport parking lots, security lines, and flights are all expected to see an influx of people. To ensure a smoother travel experience, airport officials emphasize the importance of planning ahead.
According to airport officials, next week will be the busiest week of the entire year, with thousands of passengers expected.
“At the airport, it’s our busiest week of the entire year. We expect to see thousands of passengers next week. Peak travel days will be this coming up Friday. Tuesday and Wednesday next week, so right before Thanksgiving, and then that Sunday after Thanksgiving is the busiest travel day of the year,” said Angela Padalecki, CEO of Grand Junction Regional Airport (GJT).
GJT officials expect to serve over 3,000 people on the Sunday after Thanksgiving alone, and between 15,000 to 20,000 people throughout the entire week. A crucial tip for travelers is to stay connected with their airline.
“It’s really important that passengers are connected to the airlines they’re serving, so we encourage them to download the app to make sure that if they don’t have the app, that their e-mail is correct that they have listed with the airline,” stated Padalecki.
They also advise making sure notifications are turned on for all flight updates. The airport encourages being mindful of what you pack and when you arrive.
“Make sure that you know what’s in your luggage. Nothing slows things down at the airport more than if you have any prohibited items in your bag when you go through the TSA security checkpoint. So, make sure that you know what’s in your bag, both your checked luggage and your carry-on luggage. For passengers who are going to check a bag at the ticket counter, it’s really important that you arrive far in advance,” said Padalecki.
The TSA recommends arriving two hours prior to a flight, and Padalecki suggests arriving at least an hour beforehand, especially if checking a bag.
Airport officials also confirmed that all forced flight cancellations are over, so passengers should expect their flights to operate on time and smoothly, but again recommend staying updated with your airline.
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