AUSTIN, Texas — October marks the return of major events in Austin such as Austin City Limits (ACL) and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is preparing for record-breaking numbers of single-day departing travelers during this month.
High passenger days at AUS expect to see more than 30,000 departing travelers a day. AUS is expecting high passenger days on:
- Sunday, Oct. 9; Monday, Oct. 10; and Tuesday, Oct. 11 for ACL Week One
- Sunday, Oct. 16; Monday, Oct. 17; and Tuesday, Oct. 18 for ACL Week Two
- Thursday, Oct. 20; Friday, Oct. 21; Sunday, Oct. 23; and Monday, Oct. 24; Tuesday, Oct. 25; and Wednesday, Oct. 26 for Formula One
Tips for arrival:
- Passengers flying domestic are advised to arrive 2.5 hours before their departure, and 3 hours beforehand if flying international.
- If you have to check a luggage, return a rental car or other activities before getting in line for TSA, you should arrive even earlier.
- Highways near the airport are expected to be crowded with traffic, especially during F1 weekend. Passengers should plan their trips accordingly.
Tips for security and packing correctly:
- TSA checkpoints open at 3 a.m. AUS has four security screening checkpoints.
- Make sure to pack correctly. Bringing prohibited items such as firearms and liquids over 3.4 oz will lead to delays in the security lines.
- Souvenirs, event promotional items and giveaways should be packed in your carry-on luggage.
Tips for parking/dropping off passengers:
- If you plan to park at the airport, visit ABIAParking.com to reserve your space and check for real-time parking availability before you get to the airport.
- Use both upper and lower levels for arrivals and departures. If one is backed up, use the other one for more efficient drop off and pick up.
- If you need to take a shuttle, budget in extra time to arrive at your terminal.
Tips for mobility assistance:
- Passengers who require wheelchair assistance should contact their airlines prior to their departure date.
Tips of checking into your flight:
- Passengers without checked bags can skip the long lines and ticket counters and head straight to the TSA line. Use mobile boarding to facilitate the check-in experience. Otherwise, use a self-service kiosk to print your boarding pass.
- Some airlines offer curbside check-in on the upper level.
Those flying Allegiant or Frontier are advised to park on-site at the South Terminal to save time.