Airline and TSA personnel have noticed an increase in passengers not allowing enough time prior to their departure. As a result, people are missing their flights. Passengers are advised to arrive at the terminal one-and-a-half hours prior to departure. Remember many airlines now require that passengers and bags be checked in no later that 30 minutes prior to departure. If you are not checked in by that time your seat can be given away.

When packing for your trip, think about what items you can carry with you and what items need to be in your checked baggage. 

• The 3-1-1 rule still applies for liquids and gels carried through the security screening checkpoint. This means that any liquid, gel or aerosol must be in a container with no more than 3.4 ounces in it and all containers must fit into one, clear, zip-top bag.  Only one plastic bag per passenger is allowed.  The bag must be taken out of your suitcase or carry-on and placed in the plastic bin.
• Do not overpack and try to keep suitcases as uncluttered as possible.
• Do not to wrap presents before traveling; if a screener cannot determine what the item is or if it needs additional inspection, the gift will have to be unwrapped.
• Be sure to check about carrying special sports equipment like fishing poles, scuba gear or hunting guns. A complete list of acceptable and prohibited items and how to transport them is available at www.tsa.gov

Many airlines now charge fees for checked baggage. Be sure to verify with the airlines the cost to check a bag before arriving at the airport so you are not surprised.

• If the airline allows, check your bag in online.  You generally save $3 to $5.
• Make sure that your bag is not over the weight limit, as it may be subject to additional fees.
• If you plan to carry luggage on board, remember that it must be a certain size and you are only allowed one other personal item such as a purse or laptop. Size regulations are listed on the airlines’ websites.

Checking in online will allow you to print your boarding pass and with some airlines, prepay baggage charges. This will also save you time at the ticket counter and in many cases save you a couple of dollars on your baggage fees. Some airlines have Apps that let you check-in and provide the boarding pass on your mobile device.

There are several parking options at Will Rogers World Airport. Save time and stress by knowing where you are going to park in advance. A map and pricing schedule is available here.

Be sure to have a government-issued ID, such as your driver’s license, to pass through the checkpoint. Your name must match the exact name on your airline ticket. 

• Remember if you are traveling out of the country, including Canada and Mexico, you will need a passport.
• Children under 18 do not require identification.

Being ready to pass through the checkpoint not only helps you get through more quickly, but helps the entire line move faster.  Remember:

• Laptops must be removed from their bags and placed in a bin with nothing else.
• The zip-top bag with your liquids and gels must be removed from your suitcase, purse or briefcase and placed in a bin where it is clearly visible to screeners.
• Shoes, jackets and sweaters must be removed and placed in a bin.
• Minimize heavy jewelry or wearing items that could alarm at the checkpoint such as jeans with sequins or studs.
• The Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) requires divesting everything that could show up as an anomoly including wallets, glasses, etc.
• TSA has implemented more random screenings at the checkpoints, so you may be asked to have your hand swabbed (a simple swipe on the hands) or your bags may undergo additional screening.

Weather can always be unpredictable at any time of year, so there is always the possibility of delays. Be prepared with activities and snacks for you and your family.