Tulsa Airport Sees Uptick In Flights Ahead Of Thanksgiving, Urges Adherence To TSA Rules

There are several events happening across Green Country this week, including the Thanksgiving holiday, and that’s bringing in a lot of air travelers from across the US.

Tulsa International Airport says all flights are up nearly 10% from this time last year.

The airport says passengers shouldn’t experience too many delays, but only if they follow TSA guidelines and prepare before they get to the airport.

As Thanksgiving week approaches, millions of travelers are gearing up for what's expected to be a busy period at airports across the country.

For those flying through Tulsa International Airport, Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Pierini says since last month, there’s been a surge in air travel and it’s growing.

“It’s going to be really busy coming off of October which is the busiest October that we’ve had since 2000 and busiest month in general since July of 2008,” Pierini said.

TUL’s flights are up by 6.5% from last year, and the airport anticipates even higher numbers this month, with over 113,000 seats already booked from Friday through next Sunday.

“It’s definitely going to be more crowded, and we’re starting to see that a little bit more today. We are encouraging people to get here at least 2 hours before your flight just to make sure you have enough time to get through the checkpoint, find your parking, check your bag,” Pierini said.

Navigating the TSA can be a daunting task, but savvy travelers can make the process smoother.

TSA PreCheck remains a popular option for those looking to expedite security screening, allowing passengers to breeze through designated lanes without removing shoes, belts, or laptops.

For an even more streamlined experience, CLEAR is a new system at TUL that uses biometrics.

Pierini says it reduces wait times significantly by using fingerprint and eye scans.

Both TSA PreCheck will cost subscribers $78 at application and covers 5 years of membership.

CLEAR members will pay $189 annually.

Layovers can be more enjoyable with the array of guest amenities. Many airports, including Tulsa International, provide lounging areas for travelers to unwind between flights.

Pierini says the spaces come equipped with comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and charging stations for electronic devices.

Service dog rest areas are becoming increasingly common, acknowledging the importance of providing comfort not just for passengers but also for their furry companions.

Travelers with service animals can take advantage of these dedicated spaces, ensuring a stress-free journey for both.

As smartphones become an indispensable part of travel, keeping devices charged is crucial. Tulsa International Airport, like many others, offers convenient phone charging stations throughout the terminals.

These stations allow passengers to power up their devices, staying connected and entertained during layovers.

Tulsa International Airport provides these tips for a smooth journey:

1. Check TSA Regulations: Ensure you comply with current TSA regulations to avoid any delays at security checkpoints.

2. Consider TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: Invest in expedited security options to minimize wait times and streamline your travel experience.

3. Explore Airport Amenities: Take advantage of lounging areas, service dog rest spaces, and charging stations to make your layovers more comfortable.

4. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on real-time flight updates and announcements for any changes or delays.

TSA guidelines can be found at their website here.