Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport expects to handle 2.3 million passengers over the Fourth of July holiday travel period, and warns travelers to get to the airport early.
The Atlanta airport says the Independence Day travel rush starts Thursday, and the busiest day is expected to be July 8, the Sunday after the Fourth of July.
Nationally, the Transportation Security Administration expects to screen 2.7 million passengers and crew members, which it expects may set a record for its busiest day ever. For the Independence Day travel period running from Thursday through July 9, TSA expects to screen 28.3 million people at airports across the country.
Officials at the world’s busiest airport say passengers should arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flights.
“It’s important to arrive early,” said Hartsfield-Jackson senior deputy general manager Michael Smith.
With airport construction at the terminal and crowds filling parking lots, travelers and those picking up or dropping off passengers should allow extra time to navigate the roads and find parking. Some overnight airport parking lots allow advance reservations to ensure a spot.
Smith said airport construction will be minimized during the holiday travel period.
But some outer lanes of the upper level of the domestic Terminal North curbside will remain closed due to construction of a massive canopy.
Fourth of July travelers should also be aware of security restrictions.
"Please remember, fireworks and sparklers are not permitted on airplanes, either in checked luggage or carry-on baggage," Smith said.
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