In preparation for a busy winter holiday travel season, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) officials are providing tips to passengers to better navigate the Airport’s increased traffic volume. Additionally, the Airport is announcing the completion of the Main Security Checkpoint construction project.

Holiday Travel

More than 3.3 million passengers are expected to travel to, from, or through ATL beginning Friday, Dec. 22, through Sunday, Jan. 2. Airport projections point to Friday, Dec. 22, as the busiest day with 327,624 passengers expected in ATL.   

Passengers should arrive in the Airport at least two and a half hours prior to their scheduled departure times for domestic flights and three hours for international flights. Passengers who require wheelchair assistance or have ADA requirements are recommended to add 30 minutes to those arrival times. ATL’s website—ATL.com—provides current information about parking options, security wait times, and concessionaires. Passengers are also encouraged to monitor the Airport’s social media channels (@ATLairport) and the social media channels of their airlines for updates.

Airport officials also encourage all passengers to thoroughly inspect their luggage and belongings prior to arriving at the Airport to ensure they are not bringing prohibited items through the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint. As a reminder, all firearms and ammunition must be properly packaged and placed in checked bags. To remain compliant with TSA regulations, visit the “What Can I Bring?” page on TSA.gov for more detailed information.

As a reminder, green-coated ATL Customer Service Representatives are always available to provide answers, directions, and tips for travelers.

Main Security Checkpoint Project

Ahead of the projected passenger surge, ATL is proud to announce the successful completion of the Main Security Checkpoint project. This initiative involved a comprehensive overhaul and standardization of TSA screening equipment, seamlessly integrating it with the advanced technology utilized at the South Checkpoint. The scope of work included replacing 19 legacy security screening machines with new Analogic CT machines. The new state-of-the-art equipment represents the aviation security industry’s most advanced technology for detecting current and evolving threats at baggage and passenger security checkpoints. This project also replaced all CCTV cameras, enhanced the ceiling and lighting levels, modified the electrical and mechanical system and included additional upgrades to support the new system. Construction on the $66 million project started in May 2022 and marks completion well ahead of its original projected completion date of April 30, 2024.