MEMPHIS, TENN. (March 8, 2021) – For Memphis International Airport (MEM), 2021’s Spring Break period is likely to be more spread out than previous years due to scheduling differences of area schools. However, traffic will increase during the primary Spring Break travel periods, which are expected to be March 11-14 and March 25-28. TSA screened 5,882 employees and passengers on Friday, March 5, the highest daily checkpoint total since the pandemic began. While the pandemic continues to result in reduced passenger volume, passengers can ensure more efficient travel by utilizing the following tips:
Operational Updates/COVID-19 Measures
- Federal law requires you to wear a mask at all times when traveling through Memphis International Airport. Masks must completely cover the nose and mouth of the wearer. The use of face shields alone is not sufficient but can be used in addition to a face mask.
- The face mask requirement applies at all times unless:
- It is necessary to temporarily remove it for ID verification.
- Eating, drinking, or taking oral medications for brief periods.
- The traveler is under two years old.
- Passengers without a mask will be denied entry, checkpoint security screening, boarding, or continued transport.
- Failure to comply with the mask requirement can result in civil penalties.
- Complimentary masks are available at the ticketing counters and the TSA checkpoint, and additional masks are available for sale at retail shops.
- Ridesharing companies Uber and Lyft now require both drivers & passengers to wear face masks during trips. More information can be found at ubr.to/2LHBfXI (Uber) or lft.to/36e0QAR (Lyft).
- Floor markings are in place which illustrate the recommended 6′ distancing between passengers.
- Businesses and airlines have installed Plexiglass at counters as an extra measure of protection.
- MEM and its partners continue to maintain enhanced cleaning and sanitation of high contact areas, including the gate areas and the security checkpoint.
- Sanitizer dispensers can be found throughout the terminal and in both the A and C concourses.
- The Delta Air Lines SkyClub remains temporarily closed.
Airline Operations
- MEM recommends that travelers arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before their departure time.
- Passengers should check with their airlines to monitor schedules.
- Each airline has different policies and fees for baggage.
- Airlines rather than the airport are responsible for all aspects of ticketing, scheduling, gate operations and baggage handling. Check with your airline if you have questions about any of these aspects of air travel.
- Each airline maintains its own COVID-19 policies and procedures.
- Airlines require passengers to wear masks/facial coverings when boarding and throughout the duration of the flight.
- Additional information about the effects of COVID on airport and airline operations can be found at www.flymemphis.com/covid-19.
TSA
- TSA recently announced it has substantial efforts underway in preparation for spring break travelers. Those efforts include technology upgrades across airport checkpoints that reduce or eliminate physical contact, recruitment efforts to prepare for possible increasing passenger volumes, and vaccination efforts for our officers and personnel who regularly engage directly with members of the public.
- All screening continues to be performed at the B Checkpoint. The C Checkpoint is currently closed but can be reopened if necessary.
- As a temporary exemption from its “3-1-1” rule (no liquids in excess of 3.4 oz. in carry-on bags), TSA is allowing one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in carry-on bags.
- In order to expedite security screening time, passengers should review the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA’s) list of prohibited items.
- Firearms in carry-on bags are prohibited by federal law. Check your bags before you arrive at the airport.
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