Passenger volumes during MEA week are expected to increase 16% compared with average activity levels recorded so far this fall.
MINNEAPOLIS — Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport is preparing for one of its busiest travel periods of the year as families take advantage of the annual MEA school break for fall vacations and getaways.
Passenger volumes during MEA week are expected to increase 16% compared with average activity levels recorded so far this fall, according to the Metropolitan Airports Commission, which owns and operates MSP.
“This is a celebrated travel time for many Minnesotans — one more getaway before winter,” said Scott Skramstad, director of terminal and landside operations for the Metropolitan Airports Commission. “The MAC, airlines and tenants have coordinated in advance to increase staffing levels, especially in our terminal lobbies to better assist travelers and help reduce wait times for check-in and security processes.”
Airport officials forecast approximately 50,000 travelers will pass through security checkpoints on Wednesday, Oct. 14, and Thursday, Oct. 15, the busiest days of the MEA travel period. Travel activity is expected to remain elevated through Sunday, Oct. 18, when more than 44,000 people are projected to move through security checkpoints.
MSP said the busiest times inside both terminals will be during early morning and late afternoon hours. Travelers are advised to arrive three hours before international flights and two hours before domestic departures.
Travel tips for MEA week
Airport officials offered several recommendations for travelers and those picking up or dropping off passengers:
- Travelers can reserve a spot in the security line at no cost through MSP RESERVE, though availability is limited and varies by terminal.
- Parking can be prebooked online to guarantee a space and secure the lowest daily rates. Reservations must be made at least 12 hours before arrival.
- Terminal 1 drivers can use both sides of the upper-loop roadway for passenger pickups and drop-offs.
- Terminal 2 travelers can use the free Terminal 2 Express Lane through the Purple Ramp, which provides a covered loading zone connected to the terminal by skyway.
- Drivers picking up passengers are encouraged to use MSP’s free cell phone lots on Post Road to reduce curbside congestion. Access to the lots is currently available only from 34th Avenue South because of ongoing construction.
- Travelers departing from Terminal 1 are encouraged to check security wait-time boards in the ticketing lobby. Airport officials noted that all gates are accessible from either checkpoint and that the North Checkpoint often has shorter wait times.
- Passengers should review the latest Transportation Security Administration screening requirements and information on identification and regulated carry-on and checked baggage items before traveling.
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