TULSA, OK – March 12, 2025 – Spring Break begins later this week for many local and regional schools, and the airport is anticipating a surge in passenger activity. Airport officials expect a 5% increase in traffic compared to the 2024 Spring Break season, with an estimated 201,000 passengers flying through the airport between March 14-30 (Oklahoma and Arkansas Spring Break season).

Tulsa International Airport shares essential tips and reminders for air travel. From arriving early to packing smart, these recommendations aim to make Spring Break travel as smooth as possible.

“In close collaboration with our parking operator, airline and rental car partners, as well as our shop and restaurant managers, we are prepared to manage the increased number of passengers this Spring Break,” said Kim Kuehler, Tulsa International Airport’s Communications Manager. “We look forward to welcoming more families and students to the terminal. Travelers should arrive early to allow plenty of time and enjoy our latest updates, including the Guest Services Areas and the new Discovery Lab play area.”

1. Planning Ahead for Your Trip

• Pack Smart: TSA recommends always starting with an empty bag, meaning to check every pocket before packing to reduce the risk of accidentally bringing prohibited items through security.
• Liquids Rule: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces or less. Larger containers must go in a checked bag.
• Medical Assistance: Travelers with medical conditions or disabilities can call the TSA Cares toll-free helpline at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel for assistance with screening policies and procedures.
• REAL ID Reminder: Oklahomans can continue using standard driver’s licenses or identification cards to board domestic flights until May 7, 2025.

2. Leaving for the Airport and Parking

• Check Flight Status: Check directly with your airline for any last-minute changes before leaving for the airport.
• Arrive Early: Arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure time. The security checkpoint opens at 3:45 a.m.
• Parking Options: Have a plan for parking before leaving. Passengers can choose from Garage, Economy, or Valet parking. Visit www.flytulsa.com for more information on rates.
• TUL Parking Perks: Earn free parking for every dollar spent by signing up for TUL Parking Perks at tulparkingperks.com.

3. Airport Amenities and Accessibility Resources

• Sunflower Lanyard Program: Passengers who may need extra assistance while traveling can use the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program. The airport provides lanyards free of charge to passengers with hidden disabilities. Wearing a sunflower lanyard discreetly signals to all staff that a passenger may need additional time or assistance. Lanyards are available in the airport lobby at Room A-211 or by emailing [email protected], or by calling 918-838-5000.
• Guest Services Areas: TUL’s two Guest Services Areas offer sensory rooms, mother’s rooms, quiet rooms, family restrooms with both standard and adult-sized changing tables, and indoor service animal relief areas. These areas are located on the lower level of Concourse A and Concourse B.
• Airport Ambassadors: Airport Ambassadors will be available to assist travelers with any questions or concerns.
• Therapy Dogs: Welcome Waggin’ volunteer therapy dogs will be in the terminal to greet passengers.
• Discovery Lab Play Area: The airport partnered with Discovery Lab to build a children’s play area post-security. Open for nearly a year, it is located between Gates B7 and B9.

4. Free Activities and Live Entertainment in the Terminal

• Tunes at TUL: Six local musicians will perform at Gate A1 during the Spring Break travel season. View the schedule here: Tunes at TUL.
• New TUL Art Cart Launch: The airport is launching its new Art Cart, a mobile craft station offering free, seasonal art projects for young travelers. The Art Cart will be located post-security in various areas throughout the terminal. Airport staff will be on hand to assist.

5. Picking Up or Dropping Off Passengers

• Curbside Rules: The Departures and Arrivals curbsides are for active loading and unloading only. Use the free Cell Phone Lot, located behind the Hilton Garden Inn, to wait for arriving passengers. Alternatively, park in short-term parking spaces at the top garage level to greet them inside.
• TUL Visitor Pass: Non-traveling individuals can register for a TUL Visitor Pass to go through security, see loved ones off, greet them at the gate, and enjoy terminal amenities. Visit TUL Visitor Pass to register.

Media Resources: Photos for on-air, online, or social media use can be found here: TUL Media Dropbox Folder.

About Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust: Tulsa Airports Improvement Trust (TAIT) administers, manages and operates Tulsa International Airport (TUL) and Tulsa Riverside Airport (RVS), both of which are owned by the City of Tulsa. TAIT’s mission is to provide a safe, efficient, self-supporting airport system for the citizens of the Tulsa metropolitan area and surrounding region.