TBO.com - TBO is Tampa Bay Online

TIA Less Busy This Holiday But Still Plenty Crowded

News Channel 8 Photo by ERIC HAUSMANN

TIA officials expect 115,000 to 120,000 outbound passengers today through Monday.

ADVERTISEMENT

By CHIP OSOWSKI | News Channel 8

Published: November 26, 2008

TAMPA - Although today is considered one of the busiest travel days of the year, Tampa International Airport officials say passenger travel for Thanksgiving is down 10 percent compared with last year.

Still, airport officials expect 115,000 to 120,000 outbound passengers today through Monday — about 25,000 alone today.

The lines this morning don't seem as long — and the traffic outside the terminal doesn't seem as bad — as in past holidays. But air travelers should still take steps to avoid delays, officials said.

"This is one of the heaviest travel days of the year. Even though our traffic is down, we think everything will be fine, but it's always good to have that little cushion of time for you," said Robert Burr, airport director of operations. "We recommend and hour and a half to two hours before your flight to make sure everything runs fine."

Officials say that in addition to arriving early, you should check with your airline on your flight status before leaving for the airport.

Officials say new express security lines for frequent flyers and a new parking garage with an additional 21,000 spaces should reduce stress for passengers.

Nationwide, air travel is down 7 percent and car travel is down 1 percent, but bus and train travel are up 16 percent.

Reporter Ted Jackovics contributed to this report.

Share this:

Loading Comments...

Email Print

ADVERTISEMENT