TULSA, OK – November 21, 2024 – With Thanksgiving holiday travel kicking off this weekend, Tulsa International Airport (TUL) is preparing to welcome nearly 125,000 passengers during one of the busiest travel weeks of the year. Airline seat capacity at TUL for November 2024 is up 5.7% year-over-year. The TSA projects the three busiest travel days will be the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday.

Nationally, 5.84 million people are forecast to fly domestically over the Thanksgiving holiday period from Tuesday, Nov. 26, to Monday, Dec. 2, according to AAA. That is 2% more than last year, and nearly 11% higher than 2019.

To help travelers enjoy a hassle-free journey, Tulsa International Airport is sharing essential tips and reminders for air travel. From arriving early to packing smart, these recommendations aim to make Thanksgiving travel as smooth as possible.

“Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, but with a little preparation, passengers can enjoy a smooth and stress-free experience,” said Kim Kuehler, Communications Manager at Tulsa International Airport. “We encourage travelers and their families to take advantage of our convenient, free services, such as the Cell Phone Lot for easy pickups or our Guest Services Areas in the terminal, designed to make travel more comfortable.”

1. Planning Ahead for Your Trip

• Pack Smart: TSA recommends starting with an empty bag and checking every pocket before packing. This reduces the risk of bringing prohibited items through security.
• Liquids Rule: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces or less.
• Food Items: Foods classified as liquids or gels, such as gravy, cranberry sauce, wine, and jam, should be packed in checked luggage if they exceed 3.4 ounces. Solid foods like baked goods are allowed through the checkpoint.
• 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 Update: Oklahomans can continue using standard driver’s licenses or identification cards to board domestic flights until May 7, 2025.

2. Parking and Leaving for the Airport

• Arrive Early: Arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure time. Note that the security checkpoint opens at 3:45 a.m.
• Check Flight Status: Confirm your flight details directly with the airline through their app or website.
• Parking Options: Passengers can choose from Garage, Economy, or Valet parking. Visit flytulsa.com for more information on rates.

3. Free Amenities and Assistance in the Terminal

• Guest Services Areas: Located on the lower level of Concourses A and B, these areas include sensory rooms, lactation rooms, quiet rooms, family restrooms, and indoor pet relief areas.
• Ambassador Assistance: Airport Ambassadors are available to help with questions.
• Welcome Waggin’: Therapy dogs will greet passengers in the terminal.
• Tunes at TUL: Enjoy local live music at Gate A1 during Thanksgiving week.
  • Monday, November 25: 10:30–11:30 a.m. – Steve Liddell
  • Wednesday, November 27: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Travis Kidd
  • Sunday, December 1: 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. – Hot Toast
  • Friday, December 6: 10:30–11:30 a.m. – Tulsa Signature Symphony

4. Picking Up or Dropping Off Loved Ones

• Curbside Rules: Active loading and unloading only. Use the free Cell Phone Lot, located behind the Hilton Garden Inn, to wait for arriving passengers or park in short-term parking on 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 https://flytulsa.com/tulvisitorpass to register.

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