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Travel Plans On Your Plate?

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 19, 2007

What's new at Tampa International Airport from a year ago?

Daily parking rates are higher, ranging from $9 daily for the economy lot to $25 for valet parking. Construction on airport roadways and nearby interchanges requires caution. Overflow parking will be available at a flat rate of $10 but only after all 20,000 permanent spaces are filled.

What can be expected with flight delays?

Tampa International Airport generally ranks among the top five U.S. airports in on-time departure performance, so don't be late. Officials suggest arriving two hours early to park, check in and pass through security. One-third of U.S. delays involve New York airports, the most popular destination to and from Tampa, so stay informed if you are meeting someone flying in from there

What's new with passenger security?

Small lighters are no longer banned as carry-on items, but torch lighters remain prohibited. Remember the ongoing 3-1-1 carry-on rules: 3-ounce bottles or less for liquids, gels and aerosols; one quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag to hold small bottles; one bag per passenger placed in the screening bin.

What are the best sources for travel information?

• The airport's Web site, tampaairport.com, provides real-time flight information, as does faa.gov. From your cell phone or PDA, go to www.faa.gov/wireless.

What about driving?

Gas will cost an average of $1 a gallon more than a year ago. (The average price in Florida on Sunday was $3.15 a gallon.) Despite that, AAA Auto Club South predicts a 2 percent increase in both airline and automobile travelers in the Southeast this Thanksgiving. Even though most construction projects are halted during holiday periods, the interstates can become parking lots at times, so allow plenty of travel time.

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