It’s time to solidify your Christmas plans if you haven’t already.
If you still need to book holiday travel or want to take advantage of your time off and do some exploring, Wilmington Airport (ILG) is a closer option for flights than other nearby airports.
Here’s what you need to know before flying out of ILG this December.
Wilmington Airport near New Castle is the only airport offering nonstop service from Delaware to more than a dozen destinations, making the holidays a hectic time for the airport.
Last year, nearly 15,000 arriving and departing passengers traveled through ILG during the two-week period before and during Christmas. Wilmington Airport officials expect that number to grow by 20% to 17,4000 travelers this year.
With that many passengers abound, and the potential for delays due to unpredictable weather this time of year, be prepared for a busy airport.
To make your travel go smoothly, Wilmington Airport offers the following tips:
If you plan to drive to the airport instead of being dropped off, three main parking lots are within walking distance of the terminal, priced at $11.50 per day. They are first come, first served and often fill up first. A pay-by-plate area, Lot D, has shuttle service as needed. Real-time parking availability can be viewed online at flyilg.com/parking-wilmington-airport-ilg.
Cell phone waiting spots adjacent to the terminal should be utilized if you are dropping off or picking up a passenger.
To avoid any mishaps, always check with your air carrier, which would be Avelo Airlines or American Airlines at ILG, before heading to the airport for updated flight status and other important notices.
If you’re considering saving money by traveling with Avelo Airlines, the following routes are offered in Delaware:
Avelo announced on Nov. 12 that it is adding nonstop routes at Wilmington Airport to Chicago and Atlanta in the new year.
Travel to Chicago via O’Hare International Airport (ORD) begins on March 12, with four flights per week on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays. Travel to Atlanta via Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) begins on Feb. 12, with five flights per week on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays.
These will operate using Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. A new aircraft will also be added to Wilmington Airport in March.
Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krys’tal Griffin atkgriffin@delawareonline.com.
