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Houston Airport System
December 1, 2008
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The 2008 holiday rush is in full swing at both William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) and George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH).
With the Thanksgiving push now behind us, attention turns to the second wave of holiday passengers coming in late December.
The increase in passenger flow is likely to begin as early as December 20, and continue building as we draw closer to the 24th.
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are not typically heavy travel days, since most passengers have already finished the first leg of their trip. However, the return flights will certainly bring a rush of people to U.S. airports, starting on Friday, December 26.
So, how do you minimize any potential headaches associated with holiday travel? Well, the most important step is pre-planning when it comes to time, parking and packing.
The Houston Airport System (HAS) recommends that you arrive at least two hours prior to your departure for a domestic flight and three hours early for international flights. This should give you plenty of time to find a parking spot, check in with your airline and make your way through security without having to worry as to whether or not you’re going to make your flight.
Finding a parking space shouldn’t be difficult at either airport facility.
Parking Tips
Did you know that both IAH and HOU have some of the most inexpensive parking options and even offer free parking in some areas? With a total of more than 26,000 public parking spaces available at both airports, you’ll be sure to find affordable parking either in the terminal garages or the Parking Cents economy parking lots.
- • All terminal garages fees range from $1.00 for the first hour to $15.00 a day. The Parking Cents economy lot is only $6.00 a day.
- • For those of you that will be picking up friends and family from the airports, there’s free parking available just for you. All you have to do is follow the purple signs located throughout the airports to find the Passenger Pick Up Waiting Lots.
- • The Passenger Pick Up Waiting Lots not only offer free parking, but are easy on your gas tank too, leaving no reason to circle the airports. Simply follow the purple signs, park and wait for your party to call you on your cell phone when they’re ready to be picked up.
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© Houston Airport System
Holiday travel is in full swing at Houston's airports |
Security Checkpoint Tips
If you are the one doing the traveling and are not used to flying, try referring to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) permitted and prohibited items list for your carry on and checked luggage.
The 3-1-1 rule is still in effect, which allows passengers to carry three ounces or less of liquid in three ounce containers. Each passenger is allowed one, one quart-sized, clear, plastic zip top bag to consolidate the three ounce containers.
Since you will have to remove your coats and shoes when going through the TSA checkpoint, dress comfortably and consider wearing shoes that are easy to slip on and off.
If you’d like more information about the TSA screening process, including a list of prohibited items, you can log on to their website at www.tsa.gov
Other Tips
Have your flight itinerary readily available, along with your photo identification.
Try calling or visiting your airline’s web site before leaving for the airport. Your airline will have the latest information on your flight status.
All airlines are different and have different policies and charges. Don’t set yourself up for a surprise when arriving to the airport.
It is important to pack your essentials in your carry-on luggage, such as medications and copies of your passport and identification.
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