CAE suggests summer air travel tips.

Memorial Day Travel Seeing Significant Increase in Passenger Traffic

As Memorial Day approaches, many travelers are gearing up for a busy weekend of travel. Passenger traffic has been significantly increasing over the past few months, with more expected to come during the summer months, according to the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

The airport welcomed over 335,000 passengers between January and April of this year, a noticeable increase of 33,000 passengers compared to the same time frame in 2021. “Month over month we are seeing these numbers increase and as we approach holiday weekends like this weekend, we know this airport will be filled with passengers heading out to their summer vacations,” shared Kim J. Crafton, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development at CAE.

AAA projects that 42.3 million Americans, a 7% increase from 2021, will travel more than 50 miles from home this Memorial Day weekend. This is expected to be the third busiest Memorial Day weekend since 2000, when AAA began tracking holiday travel. Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, shared, “More Americans are planning trips and booking them earlier, despite inflation. This summer travel season could be one for the record books, especially at airports.”

Travel Tips for Summer Air Travel

With airports expected to be busier this summer travel season, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport shared some helpful tips to ease the stress of flying:

Arrive Early

CAE strongly recommends arriving at least two hours early, especially for early morning flights. Security checkpoints may have long lines during this time. Additionally, most airlines cannot check bags into their checked baggage systems for a flight 45 minutes from departures.

Book Parking in Advance

Guests traveling through CAE can save on daily rates by booking parking in advance on the airport’s website. The valet parking option, which is now back open and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, is also a great alternative.

Check Your Carry-On Bags

Review your carry-on bags before going through security to ensure that prohibited items are not present. Firearms are the most important items to check for before heading to the airport. If any prohibited items are found, they will be confiscated, and charges may be filed. Additionally, should a firearm be found, authorities will be contacted.

Know Your Flight Status

Download your airline carrier’s mobile apps and turn on notifications to get updated on any and all information about your flight. Passengers may also be able to communicate and connect with their airline’s customer service teams directly through the app.

Pack Extra Patience

Summer is a busy travel season, so it is essential to pack some extra patience to ensure a safe and easy travel experience.

Follow CAE on Social Media for Travel Notices

CAE shares messages and information on social media regarding travel-related matters that may affect many travelers. Follow CAE on Facebook or Twitter to stay updated on air travel news.

For more information about traveling with CAE, visit their website at flycae.com.