As the holiday season quickly approaches, airports face their busiest travel days in history. In a National Press Release, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that they expect to screen more than 17.8 million people just from Tuesday, November 25 to Tuesday, December 2.
If you are traveling by plane this holiday season, keep in mind the increased number of flyers and how this can have an impact on your travels. Follow these tips to do your part in keeping your flying experience smooth and safe.
All Flights Restored After Government Shutdown Ends
During the federal government shutdown from October 1 to November 12, federal airports and the TSA faced significant reductions in daily flights and fatigue among all airport staff. While flight schedules have been restored and cancellations and delays are less common, there is still a strain on American airports following the government shutdowns.
Considering the previous reduction in flights and the busiest travel days of the year, flyers can expect long wait times and full flights.
Prepare for Busy Flight Times
Arrive at the airport a few hours before your flight is scheduled to board to ensure that you can make it through security screening and to your gate with time to spare. Missing a flight during this busy period can result in having to wait hours or even days for the next available flight.
In addition to arriving early, make sure all of your baggage and belongings are in compliance with airport safety regulations and airline requirements.
Double Check Your Baggage
Airport security regulations ban certain items that violate security guidelines. While it is widely known that a passenger cannot bring weapons inside an airport and onto a plane, there are several other items that can be easily forgotten in baggage and cause issues with security screening or even further escalations. The most commonly prohibited items detected by airport security screening include:
- Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
- Knives and other Sharp Objects
- Firearms
- Explosives and Flammable Materials
- Realistic Replicas and Novelty Items
- Ammunition
- Flammable Household Items
- Restricted Powders
- Electronic Devices with Lithium Batteries
- Alcoholic Beverages Over 140 Proof
For guidance on what you can pack in your carry-on or checked luggage, consult resources like the TSA’s “Can I Bring” app or your airline’s website for specific restrictions.
Flying from Federal vs. Private Airports
The TSA sponsors the Screening Partnership Program (SPP) to contract private security firms to provide passenger and baggage screening services at commercial airports. Even at SPP airports, private security firms must run screening services under federal oversight and comply with all TSA screening procedures.
Treat Flight Attendants, Airport Staff, and Fellow Flyers Kindly
The holiday season often triggers a spike in anxiety and stress, which can be further increased with airport travel. Remember to treat everyone, flight attendants, airport staff, and other flyers, with patience and kindness, and that getting angry in tense situations never helps.
Flight attendants, transportation security officers, and other airport staff working during the holiday season are likely sacrificing spending the holidays with their own loved ones. Showing warmth and kindness can help brighten their days and create a greater sense of gratitude and holiday spirit.
Safe Travels and Happy Holidays!
BOS Security wishes for safe travel for all flyers this holiday season and smooth operations for all airport staff. As an SPP partner since 2009, we uphold the highest federal security standards, ensuring passenger safety and operational efficiency. BOS Security delivers specialized screening services, including passenger checkpoints and baggage operations, while adhering to TSA protocols and utilizing approved technologies. Our commitment to excellence allows airports to benefit from cost-effective solutions, reduced wait times, and enhanced accountability. With BOS Security, travelers experience reliable and professional service backed by federal oversight and private sector innovation.