Memphis International Airport expects 45k people to stream through TSA Checkpoint this spring break

Friday, March 8, 2024

During the Spring Break travel period from March 7 to March 11, approximately 45,000 individuals are anticipated to pass through the TSA checkpoint at Memphis International Airport (MEM). The busiest days are expected to be March 8 and March 10, with estimated throughputs of 9,500 and 10,000, respectively.

MEM’s traffic has been on a positive trajectory since its record-breaking 4.8 million origin and destination passengers in 2023. In the first two months of 2024, a combined total of 369,186 passengers cleared the checkpoint, compared to 352,790 in the same period in 2023. February 2024 marked the busiest February for TSA at MEM since 2008.

To ensure smooth travel experiences, MEM strongly advises passengers to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure, especially for flights departing between 4-7 a.m.

Passenger Travel Tips:

1. Arrive at MEM at least TWO HOURS before your flight’s scheduled departure.
2. Save time by checking in online through your airline’s website before arriving at the airport.
3. Stay updated on flight schedules by directly contacting your airline.
4. Airlines handle ticketing, scheduling, gate operations, and baggage handling. For inquiries regarding these matters, consult your airline.
5. MEM parking lots may reach capacity during peak travel periods. Additional signage and parking staff will assist in directing drivers to available spots. Nearly 300 parking spaces have been added ahead of Spring Break.
6. For convenience, consider dropping off luggage and passengers at the terminal before parking, especially if parking in the blue or yellow lots.
7. Shuttles operate between the blue and yellow parking lots and the terminal for added convenience.

Live musical performances are set to make a comeback at MEM’s rotunda stage during Spring Break, featuring the following schedule:

– Friday, March 8: Memphis Symphony Orchestra (10:30-11:30 am)
– Monday, March 11: Music Export Memphis Send-Off Show featuring Rachel Maxann (10-11:45 am)
– Friday, March 15: Flamenco Memphis (10 am – noon)

Ole Smoky Moonshine Tasting

Join Paradies Lagardere and Athens Distributing for an Ole Smoky moonshine tasting at the Distillery District on Friday, March 8, from 11:30 am to 1 pm participants must be at least 21 years old and have a valid ID.

TSA

The TSA employs Computed Tomography (CT) equipment at MEM, enhancing security measures at the checkpoints. Thanks to the advanced capabilities of CT equipment, passengers can now keep their laptop computers, electronic devices, and 3-1-1 compliant liquids in their carry-on bags for screening.

It’s important to note the size limitations for these CT units, requiring all items to fit into the grey divesting bins. The item’s height must not exceed the CT tunnel height, and nothing should be placed directly on the moving belts. Oversized bags must be checked at the airline ticket counters as they won’t be accepted for screening at any TSA checkpoint. Bin size dimensions are as follows:

– Width: 19.5 inches
– Length: 24.5 inches
– CT Tunnel Height: 16.5 inches

Passengers must place all carry-on items, including bags, into a bin for screening. Light items should be positioned at the bottom of the bin to prevent any spillage into the tunnel, avoiding unnecessary bag jams.

Travelers should remember to bring only one carry-on bag and one personal item for security screening.It’s encouraged to inspect carry-on luggage to ensure no prohibited items are inside and review the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA’s) list of prohibited items.

Federal law strictly prohibits firearms in carry-on bags. However, if properly declared to the airline and packed in accordance with TSA guidelines, firearms can be transported in checked baggage.

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