MEMPHIS, Tenn. (March 8, 2023) – More than 41,000 people are expected to pass through the security checkpoint at Memphis International Airport (MEM) during this year’s peak Spring Break travel period, which will fall between March 9-13. This represents an increase of 3.4% compared to Spring Break 2019, which would make this Spring Break at MEM the busiest since 2008. The peak day is expected to be Friday, March 10 with more than 9,000 people projected to pass through the checkpoint.
MEM’s checkpoint traffic in January and February reached its highest levels since 2008, and with that trend expected to continue this Spring Break, MEM is sharing tips to assist passengers.
Most importantly, MEM is recommending that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time. This is especially important for travelers with early morning flights between 4-7 a.m.
Passenger Travel Tips
- Passengers should arrive at the airport at least TWO HOURS before their scheduled departure time.
- Prior to coming to the airport, passengers can also save time by checking in online via their airline’s website.
- Passengers should check directly with their airlines to monitor schedules.
- 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 these subjects.
- MEM parking lots are likely to reach capacity during peak travel days. When this occurs, additional signage will be added, and additional parking staff will help direct drivers to available parking spots and overflow lots.
- MEM is also prepared to activate an overflow parking area should the economy, short-term and long-term garages reach capacity.
- For convenience, drivers parking in the overflow lot may want to drop off luggage and other passengers at the terminal before parking.
- Should the overflow parking lot open, MEM will operate a shuttle between the overflow parking lot and the terminal.
TSA
- With the improved security capabilities of TSA’s new Computed Tomography (CT) equipment at the MEM checkpoints, passengers can now leave their laptop computers, electronic devices and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their carry-on bags for screening.
- However, there are size limitations for these CT units and all items must fit into the grey divesting bins. Nothing can be placed directly on the moving belts. All oversized bags must be checked at the airline ticket counters because they will not be accepted for screening at any TSA checkpoint.
- Bin size dimensions are as follows:
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- Width: 19.5 inches
- Length: 24.5 inches
- CT Tunnel Height: 16.5 inches
- While the dimensions of most carry-on bags are within the width and length size limits of the bins, passengers must also ensure that they do not overpack their bags to exceed the 16.5-inch height limit of the CT tunnel.
- Travelers are encouraged to examine carry-on luggage to ensure no prohibited items are contained within, and review the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA’s) list of prohibited items.
- Firearms in carry-on bags are prohibited by federal law. Firearms can be transported in checked baggage if they are properly declared to the airline and packed in accordance with TSA guidelines.
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