ABIA: Get to the airport 2 hours early

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Travelers to and from Austin for the Formula One U.S. Grand Prix race will mesh with those heading in or out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport this week for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Flights are full and charters have been added, according to Jason Zielinski, spokesman for ABIA . The increased traffic will create longer than normal ticketing and security lines. A new, fourth security checkpoint recently opened in east ticketing to help reduce security wait times.

Travel Tips

ABIA is experiencing consistent passenger growth dating back to January 2010. Passenger traffic is up 3.5 percent year-to-date compared to last year’s record 9.1 million passengers.

Travelers are advised to arrive in the airport terminal at least two hours prior to departure times for all flights. During this time, travelers could encounter security line waits as long as 60 minutes. Getting through the airport is smoother for travelers who come prepared. The following is recommended:

• Arrive at least two hours before departure times for all flights. The first passenger screening checkpoint will open at 3:30 a.m. Nov. 18-28 (30 minutes earlier than normal).
• Allow ample time to get to the airport. Traffic and weather could add to commute time.
• A free cellphone parking lot is available for those picking up arriving passengers. Drivers wait in cellphone parking until their passenger is waiting curbside and calls for pick up.
• Real time ABIA On-Airport Parking information is available by calling 512-530-3300.
• Before leaving for the airport, check www.abia.org , for real-time flight status and travel updates.
• NEW: Arriving passengers can now find hotel shuttles on the upper level middle curb and limousine services at the Limo Information Center across from bag claim #4.

Security

Be prepared for security screening, dress smart and pack smart:

• NEW: A fourth security checkpoint has opened on the east side of ticketing to help mitigate long waits in line.
• Carry-on luggage is restricted to one bag and one personal item such as a laptop, purse, backpack or briefcase.
• Avoid wearing jewelry and accessories that contain metal.
• Shoes, coats, jackets, hats and other such garments must be put through X-ray screening.
• Do not wrap gifts as they may have to be opened during security inspections.
• Remember 3-1-1 for liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on luggage. Three ounces per container, in a clear, one-quart bag, one per passenger. These bags should be placed in bins going through X-ray like other personal belongings such as keys. This will speed up the process as TSA will not have to search through carry-ons for liquids.
• While packing, check luggage to ensure no prohibited items are in the bag or its pockets.
• For a comprehensive list of banned and permitted items in carry-on baggage, visit the TSA's website at www.tsa.gov .
• Be prepared to present a government issued ID.

ABIA generates $2.4 billion economic impact to the Austin area annually. Austin’s airport has nonstop service to 37 destinations in the U.S. and Mexico and served a record 9.1 million passengers in 2011. The airport is growing to meet the future needs of Austin with improvements ranging from terminal expansion to parking. Austin-Bergstrom is entirely self-sustaining, generating its own revenue to cover its operating costs.

For more information, click on www.abia.org .