Memorial Day Kicks Off Summer
CLT Busy as Passenger Confidence in Travel Soars
Memorial Day is the official start of summer and summer travel. Unlike 2020 when holiday travel came to a near standstill because of the COVID-19 pandemic, this week we expect to be busy once again.
Passenger confidence in flying and their trust in Charlotte Douglas International Airport to keep them safe is on the upswing.
According to AAA, nearly 2.5 million Americans will fly this Memorial Day. That’s nearly six times more than last year, but 750,000 or 23 percent fewer passengers than in 2019. CLT is expecting larger crowds too, with an average of 24,000 to 26,000 daily local passengers plus around 100,000 daily connecting passengers. The Transportation Security Administration is predicting peak summer travel demand this year.
As travel begins to soar again, we want to remind travelers about those tried and true tips as well as COVID-19 safety protocols still in place at the Airport.
Mask Up
You have to wear a mask. Federal mandate requires everyone at CLT wear a mask at the Airport. This includes in parking facilities, on shuttle buses and inside the terminal. Free masks are available at the Airport Visitor Info Center on the Baggage Claim level and at all TSA checkpoint podiums.
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead to allow enough time to get to the Airport, find a place to park and check in, including time to go through the security checkpoint. The TSA recommends arriving two hours before domestic travel and three hours before international travel. Because of on-going Airport construction, particularly at the terminal lobby, adding a bit of extra time to your travel journey can’t hurt.
Pack your patience. There are a lot more people at CLT than many anticipate. We are busy but we are here to help make your travels safe and easy. Check security wait times before you get to the Airport at cltairport.com or on our app, available through the Apple store and Google Play.
Check for prohibited items
The same rules apply now as did before the pandemic when it comes to what is and is not allowed through the security checkpoints. A temporary exemption from the 3-1-1 rule, TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags. Otherwise expect to find acrylic barriers for social distancing and personal protective equipment worn by all Airport workers.
Airlines are strictly enforcing carry-on size limits so pack light. Look for touchless technology through the Airport, from the screening areas to dining and shopping where you can order and pay online.
Parking dos and don'ts
If you are being dropped off at the airport, remember parking is not allowed curbside and unattended vehicles are prohibited. Parked and/or abandoned vehicles will be ticketed and towed.
Parking with us? Book parking online for the best rates at Curbside Valet, the Hourly Deck, Long Term Lot 1 and Daily West Deck. Visit cltairport.com and select the “Book Parking” icon in the middle of the homepage to complete the four-step process that provides a contactless parking experience.
We hope you have a safe trip. For more information on how to prepare for travel, visit cltairport.com. Learn more about all the COVID-19 safety protocols in place at CLT and help us Keep it Rockin'.
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