CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. (WIVB) -- The terminals are buzzing and the bags are packed. Spring break travel is in full swing at Buffalo Niagara International Airport. With more passengers passing through, the airport is seeing the kinds of crowds they haven't seen since the holidays. “Travel this yea r is up 5 percent for AAA bookings compared to last year, and last year was a record year," said Elizabeth Carey, AAA director of public relations. "So, a lot of people are taking advantage of the week before Easter when schools are closed to head out to warmer destinations, and that’s the trend we're seeing this year." Orlando is an example of is a top travel destination, but before you can get on your plane to paradise, you'll have to get through airport customs. “So, there has been a little bit of confusion with the Real ID," said Kelly Khatib, Public Information Officer and Communications Manager at NFTA. "People don't understand that if you have a passport, if you have an enhanced license, then it’s not something that you have to worry about. Those are great forms of identification, you can use those to get on a plane for, of course, your domestic and international travel." If you don't have a passport, enhanced ID or enhanced driver’s license, you will need a Real ID to travel. The deadline is May 7. “If you don't have to travel soon, you know we do recommend that you can wait until you can still get one after. So that way we don't have a rush to the DMVs when everyone is trying to get one,” Khatib said. Much of the travel rush is being driven by families heading out for spring break getaways. “A lot of this is tradition for families. You know, they go to different places during this time of the year, so it’s always one of the busier times. So, we do recommend things like coming to the airport very, very early, as early as you possibly can because you don’t want your plane to take off without you and there are enough people where that could definitely happen,” said Khatib. If you’re planning on taking a trip this Spring Break you’ll want to arrive at the airport two hours early. You can also download your airlines app to keep up on changes and updates. Latest Local News Crowds build at Buffalo Niagara International Airport for spring break Ice boom set to be removed gradually due to winter damage Hamburg man admits to killing sister after allegedly attacking 91-year-old mother Depew Union Free School District announces new superintendent Legislation proposed to rehire fired NYS correction officers Gwyn Napier is a reporter who joined the News 4 team in 2025. See more of her work by clicking here. ...read more read less