Salt Lake airport surpasses early Memorial Day traveler projection
SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Coming off a busy winter season for airline travel with a record-breaking President's Day in the mix, the Salt Lake City International Airport projected a large passenger turnout for Memorial Day weekend.
"Memorial Day is the traditional kickoff for summer travel so it's a little busier time," said Nancy Volmer, spokesperson for the Salt Lake City International Airport. "As far as record-breaking, we're not expecting that."
Nearly 36,000 passengers came into the airport on President's Day, a record number for the new airport. In terms of Memorial Day weekend, the airport projected to see roughly 26,000 passengers on Thursday scheduled to depart the airport. However, on Friday, Volmer confirmed roughly 27,840 came through on that day.
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“Just allow plenty of time because you never know how long it’s going to take to get parking, check your bag and get thru security," advised Volmer. "On the parking note, I don’t think a lot of people are aware that you can actually reserve parking in advance here at the airport, you can go online and do that so if you want to streamline your experience at the airport that’s something you can do in advance.”
Thursday and Friday of Memorial Day weekend were projected to be the busiest at the airport. On a national level, air traffic is expected to be up 11 percent over last year, according to AAA Travel.
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Here are some additional tips from Salt Lake City International Airport to assist passengers:
- Prepare by packing smart. Travelers should be aware of the contents of their carry-on bags prior to leaving home to ensure the bags do not contain prohibited items, which can slow down the screening process. Text travel questions to AskTSA (275-872).
- Reserve parking in advance for the parking garage or long-term/economy parking at www.slcairport.com/parking-and-transportation/parking/
- Follow the rules for traveling with liquids. Gels, liquids and aerosols are limited to 3.4 ounces or less in carry-on luggage. (The general definition for this rule is if it can spill, spray, pump or pour, then it is subject to the liquids restriction rule and best to pack in checked luggage.)
- Check-in on the airline’s website or app prior to leaving for SLC.
- Check the airline’s website or app to see if the flight is on time or if weather at a connecting city or final destination is causing delays.
- Download The SLC International phone app or check www.slcairport.com to become familiar with the layout of the airport via an interactive map.
- Arrange for a wheelchair in advance through one’s airline or by calling (801) 744-4292.
