Lines at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport were stretching into the atrium during busy periods on Friday morning, one of the biggest travel days of the holiday period.
The Atlanta airport's security checkpoints will process about 85,000 passengers Friday, according to Hartsfield-Jackson interim general manager Roosevelt Council.
Security wait times this morning ranged from under 15 minutes to 15-30 minutes, according to airport officials.
During a single two-hour period Friday morning, the airport's security checkpoints processed about 8,000 passengers.
Council said security lanes opened at 3:30 a.m. and passengers were lined up by 4 a.m.
"Once you can prevent the build-up, it keeps it moving," he said. "The plan seems to be working."
Airport deputy general manager Balram Bheodari said Hartsfield-Jackson has also stepped up security efforts. "With what's going on in Europe, we've amped up our covert security posture," including an increased presence of officers with long guns, Bheodari said.
While Friday is one of the heaviest days for holiday traffic, more busy days are ahead at Hartsfield-Jackson. Big crowds are also expected starting Dec. 28 and again after New Year's Day, Council said.
MORE:
Traveling during the holidays? Navigate Atlanta's airport like a pro with our guide
Holiday crowds begin streaming into Hartsfield-Jackson
Millions of passengers expected at Hartsfield-Jackson over holiday period
