Charleston Airport prepared for busy week for holiday travel
Nov 26, 2024
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) - Charleston International Airport is expecting a busy week of travel.
"We’re going to be busy these next two days, and on the backside of Thanksgiving, on Sunday, we will see an increase in passenger travel which could even be a top day here for 2024," said David McMahon, Federal Security Director TSA in South Carolina.
Before the holidays this year, they want to let travelers know what to expect before their flight.
Officials advise passengers to get to the airport two hours before their flight because of the holiday crowds and the ongoing construction at the airport for their new parking garage.
TSA pre-check has moved to the far-right side of the airport to make it quicker and easier for passengers. To expedite security lines, officials suggest checking the TSA website to see what you can and cannot bring in your carry-on.
"Pack your patience. Not necessarily here, but if you are going into a large hub like Charlotte or Atlanta, they are going to be just as busy as we are here and you're going to get a little stressed out, but our focus is to make sure you have first-class security with southern hospitality. We want to make sure you have the best experience as you depart out for Thanksgiving travels and all the way into your holiday travels in December," said McMahon.
Even though it will be busy, airport officials say they are prepared and want passengers to enjoy their experience.
"Come enjoy an experience here in Charleston we try and be the first and last impression anybody has of our beautiful hometown, so come with us to enjoy have a nice meal, have a nice cocktail, buy something from our store we appreciate all that, but we certainly want folks to have a great experience," said Elliott Summey, Executive Director at Charleston Airport.
We asked officials whether they are feeling any impacts from the strike that went into effect at Charlotte-Douglas International Airport on Monday. They tell us that as of now it is not impacting operations.