MSP prepared for holiday passenger travel to approach 2019 levels at peak times
(MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL, MN) The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) opened a second cell phone waiting lot this week that more than doubles the capacity where motorists can wait before picking up arriving passengers at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). The additional capacity will be in high demand right away as MSP accommodates a high level of travelers and visitors over the next 10 days tied to the annual Thanksgiving holiday travel period.
The MAC has added the new East Cell Phone Waiting Lot on the south side of Post Rd. with 100 vehicle spaces. It’s located less than a quarter mile from the original 40-vehicle waiting area, now known as the West Cell Phone Waiting Lot. Both cell phone lots on Post Rd. are conveniently positioned between Terminals 1 and 2 for quick access to passenger pick-up zones.
“This is another way to enhance the customer experience, meeting the growing demand for free, safe, and convenient spaces for drivers to wait before picking up passengers,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the MAC. “The lots help reduce traffic congestion near the terminals because they eliminate the need for drivers to circle the airport before their party arrives at the pick-up zones.”
MSP is expecting its busiest Thanksgiving holiday travel season in four years, with some peak times over the next 10 days approaching 2019 levels. According to MSP’s latest airline booking information, Wednesday, Nov. 22, will be the busiest departure day with nearly 37,000 passengers projected to be screened at MSP’s security checkpoints. Nearly 34,000 passengers are expected to clear security on Friday, Nov. 17, the start of holiday travel period. Sunday, Nov. 26, will close out the travel period with more than 34,000 passengers expected through security. The airport is also anticipating an increase in connecting travelers, who clear security at other airports before traveling through MSP.
Travelers should generally arrive two hours before domestic flights and three hours ahead of international flights. There will be additional staff in MSP’s ticketing lobbies during high-traffic times to direct passengers to appropriate lines and help with wayfinding.
Here are some other helpful tips for Thanksgiving holiday travel at MSP:
For families traveling this holiday, the TSA also offers guidance on screening measures when flying with children.
About The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC)
The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) owns and operates one of the nation’s largest airport systems, including Minneapolis-St Paul International (MSP) and six general aviation airports. The MAC’s airports connect the region to the world and showcase Minnesota’s extraordinary culture to millions of passengers from around the globe who arrive or depart through MAC airports each year. Though a public corporation of the state of Minnesota, the organization is not funded by income or property taxes. Instead, the MAC’s operations are funded by rents and fees generated by users of its airports. For more information, visit www.metroairports.org.
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