For Immediate Release
May 15, 2024
Contact:
Office of Corporate Communications and Media Relations
(678) 920-0857
Hartsfield-Jackson Prepares for Busy Memorial Day and Summer Travel
2.5 million passengers are expected to travel through ATL during the holiday period
ATLANTA – Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) anticipates welcoming approximately 2.5 million passengers during the upcoming Memorial Day travel period, with preparations fully underway to ensure a seamless travel experience for all.
On Tuesday, key ATL officials along with representatives from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), the Atlanta Police Department, and the American Automobile Association (AAA), convened at a press conference to discuss the comprehensive strategies in place to manage the anticipated surge in travel. With an expected increase of over 119,000 travelers from last year’s eight-day Memorial Day travel period, the current holiday travel period runs from Wednesday, May 22 through Wednesday, May 29. The projected busiest day will be Friday, May 24, with over 100,000 travelers expected through ATL’s screening checkpoints.
"With our dedicated team of 63,000, ATL stands prepared to facilitate the safe and efficient transit of the millions expected this summer," said ATL Assistant General Manager for Public Safety and Security Candace Brown. She emphasized the strong partnerships with federal and airline partners which are pivotal in managing the high traffic efficiently.
“As we enter a busy travel season in the current global climate, please remember that airport security is paramount,” said Major Kelley Collier Airport Precinct Commander, Atlanta Police Department. “Our teams are dedicated to your safety, and cooperation with our security measures is essential. It is crucial to understand that the act of carrying a firearm, concealed or otherwise, without declaring it to the airline is not just a breach of trust, but a federal offense. Please, let’s work together to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience for everyone."
Officials from TSA and AAA highlighted the collaborative efforts to enhance the travel experience.
“We will have extra officers on duty to open additional screening lanes and security checkpoints will be opening as early as 3 a.m. on the busiest days,” explained TSA Federal Security Director Robert Spinden. “We will do our best to screen standard passengers in under 30 minutes and passengers enrolled in TSA PreCheck in under 10 minutes.“
AAA’s Garrett Townsend shared his insights on travel trends for the upcoming season. "Memorial Day will be the start to a very busy summer of travel,” he remarked. “American travelers are forecast to surpass pre-pandemic levels, making this the busiest Memorial Day holiday weekend in nearly two decades. The main driver of the projection is strong consumer interest in traveling both domestically and abroad. Interest in traveling internationally is at the highest level in recent years."
As the busy travel days approach, ATL officials urge travelers to follow several important tips to ensure a smooth experience:
Plan Ahead: Check flight status and potential travel advisories before heading to the airport. Arrive Early: Given the anticipated increase in passenger volume, arriving at the airport well in advance of flights is advisable. Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. Pack Smart: Compliance with TSA guidelines will expedite the security screening process. Travelers should ensure their carry-on and checked luggage do not contain prohibited items. Visit the “What Can I Bring?” section on TSA.gov to learn more. Stay Informed: Real-time updates on parking, security wait times, and concession offerings are available on the Airport's website (atl.com) and through ATL's social media channels.
In addition, ATL has green-coated guest service representatives throughout the Airport to assist passengers and answer questions, ensuring everyone’s travel experience is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
ATL is the first airport in history to serve more than 100 million passengers in one year and continues to top passenger totals worldwide. The Airport boasts an annual direct economic impact of $66 billion in the state. A frequent recipient of awards of excellence, ATL is recognized for its leadership in concessions, operations, sustainability, architectural engineering and construction. For more information, visit www.atl.com.
