SPOKANE, Wash — If you are flying for Thanksgiving this week, you will want to get to the airport even earlier than usual.
TSA is preparing for passenger volumes of about two million nationally, per day until Thanksgiving Day. It expects Sunday may be the busiest single travel day of the year.
But between now and Thanksgiving, TSA anticipates the busiest times for security check points will be from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 2 to 4 p.m. That’s why it is highly recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their flight boards to get through screening.
Most flights board about 30 to 45 minutes before their scheduled departure time.
Isabella Matias wrapped up her visit in Spokane for her sister’s 30 birthday today.
“Spokane is great," Matias said. "I’ve driven through before, but it’s a cute city.”
Matias is traveling smart, though. She booked a flight home outside of peak traveling times. Which is why she won’t have much trouble getting through the airport.
“Like an hour is generally when I arrive," Matias said. "I board last usually, so an hour is enough of time.”
Despite the expected increase in travelers at peak hours, TSA said it has enough staff on hand to ensure the most efficient screening for all passengers. In fact, TSA reported Monday 93% of its employees are following the vaccine and exemption requirements.
Also, the MyTSA app is a great resource for any last-minute questions about what items you can carry on or should check in your bag.
Spokane International Airport also reminds passengers to wear masks while at the airport or on the plane.
GEG has also reopened the Economy and C Concourse Parking Lots for daily use to create additional parking option for holiday travels.
Parking in the Economy Parking Lot, situated on McFarlane Road, is $5.00/day. Complimentary shuttle service is available approximately every 15 minutes from the Economy Parking Lot to the Airport terminal.
The C Concourse Parking Lot, located near the C Concourse terminal reopened as well. The rate is $6.00/day.
For more information on parking options and rates go to https://spokaneairports.net/parking-info/.