Clinton National Airport expects a 5% increase in departing passengers over the next three weeks, according to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). 82, 640 holiday travelers are expected to be screened between Sunday, December 14 and Saturday, January 3, compared with 78, 808 during the same period last year. Sunday, Dec. 28 is predicted to be the airport’s busiest day, with 4,526 departing passengers.

Airport officials encourage passengers to allow extra time- arriving at least two hours before their scheduled departure- especially for early-morning flights and when assistance is needed at the airline ticket counter.

Currently, more than 94% of passengers already use a REAL ID or another acceptable form of identification. TSA urges travelers who do not have a REAL ID to schedule an appointment at their local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to update their ID as soon as possible. Travelers without a REAL ID-compliant form of identification should plan for additional time, as additional identity verification may be required at the TSA checkpoint.

Traveling for the Holidays

Many holiday travelers are bringing special gifts for family and friends, and airport officials offer these important reminders:

• Gifts should remain unwrapped until you arrive at your final destination. Wrapped packages may need to be opened by TSA during the screening process.
• If you are bringing wrapping supplies, scissors are not permitted in carry-on bags and must be placed in checked luggage.
• Toy guns and knives are better shipped- or left at home- than packed in luggage. This includes squirt guns, Nerf guns, toy swords and anything that resembles real-life weapons or explosives.
• Solid foods may go through security. Items that can be spilled, spread, sprayed, pumped or poured and exceed 3.4 ounces must be placed in checked luggage.
• Travelers are encouraged to review parking options at clintonairport.com before coming to the airport. Clinton National Airport offers seven parking options, including short-term, long-term and economy parking. Knowing your options in advance can reduce stress on the day of travel.
• If you are picking up or dropping off passengers, use the East Hourly Lot directly in front of the ticket lobby. The first 45 minutes of parking are free.

Travelers with questions about permitted or prohibited items may visit www.tsa.gov.

TSA’s list of acceptable forms of ID can be found at TSA.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.

For more information on REAL ID, please visit TSA.gov/real-id or text 275-872 (“AskTSA”) or @AskTSA with questions.