WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. — The Connecticut Airport Authority expects that Bradley International Airport will be packed during the Thanksgiving travel period, which begins on Friday and runs through Sunday, Dec. 1.
During those 10 days, the CAA anticipates more than 95,000 passengers will depart from the airport in Windsor Locks. The busiest days for travel are expected to be the Saturdays and Sundays before and after Thanksgiving.
“We are looking ahead to the start of what is expected to be another busy holiday season for air travel,” CAA Executive Director Kevin Dillon said. “The airport is well prepared to handle the upcoming influx of travelers and is working to ensure that everyone has a smooth journey through Bradley International Airport.”
The CAA encourages travelers to arrive at the airport with time to spare. Passengers should make their way to the main terminal at least 90 minutes before their flight’s departure time.
The airport’s peak hours are usually between 4-7:30 a.m., as more than 25 flights will take off during that period. According to the CAA, the 3-5:30 p.m. window is also a busy part of the day.
Staying connected with your airline is also recommended. Travelers can do so by downloading their airline’s app before arriving at the airport so they can check in and confirm the status of their flight before departure. The CAA says most airlines will also send updates and notifications through the app to let passengers know about any possible schedule changes.
Being aware of TSA guidelines is also useful because going through the TSA security checkpoint is a must before boarding a flight. Travelers can visit the TSA website to discover what they can and can’t bring in their carry-on bag. The CAA says that packing appropriately will help save time going through security because bags with prohibited items will be inspected and searched.
Knowing where to park when you arrive at the airport is also key, according to the CAA. The airport’s parking system, BDL sPARK, provides travelers with access to multiple lots nearby as well as the airport’s parking garage.
Rates start as low as $7 per day, including taxes and fees. No reservations are required. One can visit the BDL sPARK website to see rates, availability and more information.
If travelers need extra assistance passing through the airport, a new concierge service in partnership with Travelers Aid International gives them a custom-tailored service during their journey through the airport, the CAA says.
A concierge associate is available to meet passengers curbside, help with check in and guide them through security and down to the gate. The service is great for older adults traveling alone, families with children or individuals with special needs. More details about the airport’s concierge service can be found here.
For people picking up a friend or family member, the CAA advises taking advantage of the airport’s free cell phone waiting lot. The parking lot is located along Light Lane several minutes from the terminal.
One can wait in the comfort of their vehicle until an arriving traveler is available to be picked up curbside. If you pay attention, you can even watch their plane land from the cell phone lot.
Bradley International Airport is an award-winning operation that contributes close to $3.6 billion to the regional economy.
The CAA was created in 2011 to develop, improve and operate Bradley International Airport and the state’s five general aviation airports in Danielson, Groton-New London, Hartford-Brainard, Waterbury-Oxford and Windham.
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Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
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