TSA visits Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport amid peak season

BAY COUNTY, Fla. ( WMBB ) – Northwest Florida Beaches International is in the midst of the peak season for summer travel, and airport officials are bracing for a large increase in passenger traffic in the coming weeks.

TSA was also in town Wednesday offering some valuable tips for a smoother air travel experience.

“It’s our busiest summer on record nationwide. Years ago, we looked at the number 3 million. We never would think that we would be screening 3 million passengers a day. But this year, it’s here on those busy weekends. And this holiday weekend. 3 million. It could be the new norm. 2.85 to 2.95 is a regular recurrence,” TSA Regional Spokesperson Mark Howell said.

Experts recommend you pack smart and arrive early. If you’re heading to a beach destination, you cannot carry sunscreens or other liquids in bottles larger than 3.4 ounces. Those have to be in a checked bag.

TSA officials also recommend checking their website or airport signage to ensure you’re not carrying any prohibited items that could hold up the checkpoint line.

“Everything that you can do that makes the process simpler for you. Makes it even easier for the TSA. And when it’s easy for the TSA, then the line moves faster. Everything else is, is a more efficient process,” Executive Director Parker McLellan said.

Officials said to arrive 2 hours before your scheduled flight on weekdays and around 3 hours early on weekends.

“Right now on weekends, it’s come out 3 hours early if you’re on a flight between seven and five. Check your airline website to make sure your flight is on time. Plan ahead,” McLellan said.

Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport is completing an 80,000-square-foot expansion project to handle the growing number of passengers.

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