TSA: Independence Day Expected to Hit Record Numbers

If Pittsburgh International Airport feels busier than usual this Independence Day holiday, it’s because it will be.

The Transportation Security Administration expects to screen nearly 18.7 million travelers at airport security checkpoints nationwide between June 30 and July 6, making it one of the busiest Fourth of July travel periods on record.

Thursday, July 2 is expected to be the busiest day, with more than 3 million passengers forecast to pass through TSA checkpoints nationwide.

At PIT, travelers should expect busy terminals, parking facilities and security checkpoints throughout the holiday week as families head out for vacations, reunions and holiday celebrations.

“The Fourth of July holiday is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and Pittsburgh International Airport is ready to welcome the increased number of passengers,” said Joe Rotterdam, Vice President, Air Service Development at Allegheny County Airport Authority.

“From our airline partners and TSA to airport operations, parking and customer service teams, we’ve planned for the surge so travelers can enjoy a smooth, stress-free start to their holiday. We encourage passengers to arrive early, reserve parking online before coming to the airport, and take advantage of the new terminal’s streamlined check-in and security experience.”

While PIT and its airline and TSA partners are prepared for increased passenger volume, travelers and those welcoming visitors can help make their trip smoother by planning.

1. Make a parking reservation online. With parking demand expected to be high through the holiday travel period, PIT authorities encourage travelers to reserve parking online before arriving. An online reservation not only locks in the best available rate but also guarantees a parking space at a chosen lot during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year.
2. Arrive early. Airport officials also recommend arriving at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures, especially during peak morning travel periods from 5 to 8 a.m. Travelers should also check their flight status before leaving for the airport.
3. Double check ID and luggage. Passengers should also ensure they are traveling with a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of identification, such as a passport, for domestic flights, and they should pack carefully to avoid prohibited items that could slow the screening process. For more information on how to get through the TSA checkpoint quickly and seamlessly, please visit the TSA Travel Tips page.
4. For those picking up family and friends, take advantage of PIT’s Free Wait Lot. The lot offers an hour of free parking and eliminates traffic congestion and parking citations. Drivers can wait comfortably in the designated lot until they receive a call or text that their arriving passenger is curbside and ready for pickup. This will also alleviate congestion at the Arrivals Level, making the pickup process easier and stress-free for everyone.

Pittsburgh International Airport encourages passengers to pack a little extra patience along with their luggage during the Fourth of July travel period. With a little preparation, travelers can spend less time worrying about the journey and more time enjoying the holiday with family and friends.