The Thanksgiving holiday once again looks to be very busy at airports. While Tucson International Airport and the airlines are gearing up to meet the expected demand , there are a few things you should know that can help you be better prepared.
The quietest time for travelers at the airport will be Thanksgiving evening and Friday. That means travelers flying before Thanksgiving Day, you should expect things to be pretty busy at Tucson international, especially because there have been some changes in the last couple of months.
Changes:
- The TSA checkpoint entrances to both concourses have been moved. Passengers departing on Southwest or United airlines reach the "A" gates at the east end of the ticketing level. Passengers departing on Alaska, American or Delta reach the "B" gates from the checkpoint at the west end of the ticketing level.
- There are also new TSA requirements. Carry-on electronic devices larger than a cell-phone must be removed from any cases and placed in a bin for screening. That means you should allow yourself some extra time for potentially longer lines.
- American and Southwest are offering curbside bag check. All other airlines require passengers to check bags at their check-in counters.
- Construction of food and beverage concessions will continue.
Traveling Tips:
- It's a good idea to plan on arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes ahead of departure time. Some airlines now require bags to be checked at least 45 minutes before departure.
- Don't forget to bring an ID with you. Passengers 18 and older are required to show one to go through the TSA checkpoint and onto a flight.
- Food items such as pies and cakes are permitted through security checkpoints, but may require further inspection.
Plane Tickets:
If you still have not purchased tickets to spend Thanksgiving with your family and friends, you might have to pay a little more for them.
Round trip prices from Tucson International:
To Los Angeles: $415.
San Francisco: $475
San Diego and Las Vegas: $600
New York City and other places nearby: $1,300
