NEWS RELEASE
WASHINGTON, Nov. 17, 2004 – With a record 16.3 million passengers expected to travel this Thanksgiving holiday, the Air Transport Association offers the following tips to travelers to help reduce the hassle factor:
Know before you go. Check your flight's status in advance just in case there's been an unexpected flight delay. Most carriers allow customers to check flight status online. Or call your carrier directly for more information.
Don’t cut it short. Give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport, check in for your flight, go through security and get to the gate. (As a general rule, most carriers request that passengers arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and up to two hours before international flights; check with your carrier in advance for specific recommendations.)
Check out your check-in options. Ask if your carrier offers Internet check-in or check-in kiosks, which can help you expedite your check in and proceed directly to security screening.
Identification please. Don't forget to bring proper identification; you'll need it to board your flight. And remember, the name on your ticket must match the name on your ID.
Don’t get carried away. With carry-on bags, that is. Federal rules allow each customer to carry one standard-size carry-on bag and one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, small backpack, camera case or laptop computer.
Dress for success. Check out these recommendations from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) about what not to wear to avoid delays at the security checkpoint.
Name that bag. Make sure all your bags, checked and carry-on, are clearly identified with your name and contact information. It’s a good idea to place your name and contact information inside your bags as well, just in case your luggage tags aren't securely attached to your bags. Also, label items like cameras, cell phones and laptop computers, or anything else you might accidentally leave behind at the airport or on board an aircraft.
Know what’s a no-no. If you’re not sure whether an item you want to pack is allowed, check out this list of prohibited items from the TSA. Don't wrap gifts or other packages; you'll likely be asked to unwrap them by security screeners. And be sure to carry film in your carry-on bag; screening equipment used to inspect checked baggage can damage film.
Pack plenty of patience. Remember the best way to start your holiday is to keep your cool and cooperate with airline personnel and government security screeners.
The Air Transport Association is the trade association for major U.S. airlines. For additional information about the industry, visit www.airlines.org.
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