As the summer travel season approaches, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is prepared to welcome a projected 2.1 million passengers over the Memorial Day holiday weekend.

On Monday, May 22, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and Airport Deputy General Manager Jan Lennon hosted Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Administrator David Pekoske and participating executives from Airlines for America, Airports Council International – North America, American Association of Airport Executives, National Air Carrier Association, and Regional Airline Association for a summer travel press conference. Officials offered useful travel tips and recommendations for passengers to better navigate the Airport during their travels.

“Here in Atlanta, many of us are still trying to make up for the time we lost during the pandemic,” Mayor Dickens said, “But here at the world’s busiest and most efficient airport, we are ready. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport knows how to move people and their cargo, swiftly and safely, from one place to another.”

Airport General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari is thrilled to kick off the summer travel season and welcome passengers to ATL. “Our team is dedicated to prioritizing passenger safety and comfort, and we encourage all travelers to plan ahead, arrive early and utilize the resources available to ensure a smooth journey,” he said.

Memorial Day marks the beginning of a significant surge in domestic and international air travel as families and individuals embark on well-deserved vacations or reunite with loved ones. More than 2.1 million passengers are expected to travel through ATL beginning Thursday, May 25, until Wednesday, May 31. Airport projections point to Friday, May 26, as the busiest day with more than 352,000 passengers expected in ATL.

“TSA is ready to handle this summer’s anticipated increase in travel," said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. Our staffing levels are better and this is largely due to better pay for all TSA employees which starts on July 1,” Citing a 12% increase in domestic travel this spring compared to the same period in 2022, Pekoske said, “We are…out of the pandemic recovery in aviation.”

To ensure a more comfortable travel experience, ATL officials and partners offer the following tips for passengers:

Plan Ahead: Check flight status and potential travel advisories before heading to the Airport.

Arrive Early: Given the anticipated increase in passenger volume, travelers are encouraged to arrive at the Airport well in advance of flights. Travelers should arrive at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights to allow ample time for check-in, security screening and navigating through the airport.

Pack Smart: Travelers should review TSA guidelines to ensure carry-on and checked luggage comply with regulations. They should be mindful of prohibited items, such as firearms and other weapons, to avoid delays at the security checkpoint. To remain compliant with TSA regulations, travelers are encouraged to visit the “What Can I Bring?” page on the TSA website (TSA.gov), text “TRAVEL” to AskTSA (275-872), or contact @AskTSA via Twitter.com for assistance.

Stay Informed: The Airport’s website (atl.com) provides real-time updates on parking availability, security wait times and current concessionaire offerings. The Airport’s social media channels (@ATLAirport) also offer helpful, immediate operational information.