CLEVELAND — The busy holiday travel season is definitely upon us.
If you’re heading to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport Wednesday, you definitely want to arrive extra early. Our cameras captured long lines at CLE before sunrise this morning as many holiday travelers take to the skies ahead of Thanksgiving.
3News had a crew at the airport all morning and reported that the line to go through the TSA checkpoint stretched from Continental past the information desk in the middle of the departure area as of 6 a.m.
Airport officials held a press conference earlier this week to help travelers prepare for the increased wait times this season.
Jessica Mayle, public affairs specialist for TSA's Great Lakes region, offered the following tips to help your air travel move a bit smoother:
- Don't forget your mask and bring an extra one in case it breaks.
- You need to have your mask on for the entire experience from the time you arrive at the airport until you exit at your final destination.
- Pack smart: Leave prohibited items at home. Mayle said that's what really slows the line down when they spot something in your bag that isn't permitted.
"I know that everyone is just trying to get to where they want to go. We want to get you there safely," Mayle said. "If you come in with the right attitude, give everyone a little space, I think it'll make the experience a lot better for you and everyone else.