Orlando International Airport

Offers "Travel Smart" Tips For Easier Holiday Travel

An increase in the number of travelers using Orlando International Airport is expected during this year’s holiday season. Calendar year-to-date statistics reflect above a 10-percent increase in travel when compared to 2003. Allowing extra time for increased security procedures is first and foremost and being prepared in advance will expedite the check-in process.

Passenger traffic is expected to be busiest from Friday, November 19th through Wednesday, November 24 th , in addition to Sunday and Monday, November 28th and 29th.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority offers these "Travel Smart" tips for the public as they use Florida’s second busiest air transportation facility. They offer common sense tips and inside knowledge about the three main components of airport use: Starting your Trip, At the Airport and Park & Greet:

STARTING YOUR TRIP:

• Pack light. Know your airlines checked bag policy and check as much baggage as possible. Confirm the maximum number and dimensions allowed for carry-on luggage. This will reduce processing time at security checkpoints. For an extensive listing of what is allowed in your carry-on and checked baggage, view the Transportation Security Administration’s web site: www.tsa.gov.
• Knives, metal pointed-tip scissors, and blades of any type or size are not permitted in carry-on baggage. These items should be packed in checked baggage. Please see the TSA web site for additional clarifications.
• Don’t forget government issued photo identification. Keep it readily available, as you may be required to produce it at several points during your journey.
• For passengers having special needs or unaccompanied minors, please make arrangements ahead of time with your airline.
• Before leaving for the airport, call your airline to confirm flight schedules.
• Do not wrap gifts as they may need to be opened and are subject to search. Consider shipping holiday packages and luggage.
• Carry money, prescription drugs, jewelry, and other valuables with you on the plane.
• If you have special medical or religious requirements, please view the Transportation Security Administration web site at www.tsa.gov
• Put identification tags on the outside and inside of your checked and carry-on luggage.
• When possible, leave electronics at home. Laptop computers, "Walkmans", hand-held video games, cell phones, etc. will be inspected and delay processing.
• When traveling with children, bring small toys, books and games to keep them entertained.

AT THE AIRPORT:

• Arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to a flight within the United States, three for travelling internationally.
• 39 shops and the 475-seat food court featuring a 3000-gallon salt-water aquarium are available for those last-minute snacks and gifts.
• Remember the name of your airline and terminal side "A" or "B" for departures and arrivals.
• Take security processing seriously! Do not make jokes or light-hearted comments while being processed for your flight.
• Be prepared to remove jewelry, keys and coats prior to the security screening.
• Do not leave your bags or packages unattended, or accept items from unknown individuals to carry on flights.
• Practice patience and enjoy your holiday!

PARK & GREET:

• Curbside drop-off is permitted, however remember that there is a ‘zero tolerance’ level for unattended vehicles at any curb on any level at the airport. Unattended vehicles will be towed immediately. Please use the airport’s parking options if you have to leave your vehicle for any reason.
• Drop off your passengers before parking, arrange a suitable meeting point, then park your car (Use the "Quick Park Ramps!)
• "Quick Park" ramps to the "A" and "B" Parking Garages allowing faster passage from "ticketing/departing" curbside.
• Please park in the garages and avoid circling on the airport’s roadways to reduce congestion, confusion, stress and the potential for accidents.
• Remember that there is a grace period in the garages allowing 30 minutes of parking at no charge.
• Consider using Satellite Parking, with free shuttle service every 10 minutes to the main terminal. Follow roadway signs to available Satellite lot(s).
• Write down your parking location, noting Garage "A" or "B", terminal level, row or satellite lot color.
• Only ticketed passengers are allowed to the airside (gate) buildings. If you are meeting friends and relatives, choose a pre-arranged meeting point in the main terminal or baggage claim.