As the holiday travel season approaches, West Virginia International Yeager Airport wants to remind passengers to get ready for an increase in travelers at the airport. It all starts with Thanksgiving travel, which begins Friday, Nov. 17 and concludes Tuesday, Nov. 28. The passenger volume peak is predicted to be on Sunday, Nov. 26.
We suggest arriving at the airport at least 2 hours prior to departure. For some airlines servicing CRW, you must be checked in at least 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time, though it is vital that you review your airline’s policy on checking in.
As a passenger, you can save time by checking in for your flight before coming to the airport using your airline’s website or mobile application. In case of airline delays or cancellations, be sure to check flight status before coming to the airport as well.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends these tips:
1. Pack smart; start with empty bags.
Starting with an empty bag decreases the chance that you will pack prohibited items.
2. Bring an acceptable ID and have it out in the screening lane.
Before leaving for the airport, travelers must have acceptable identification. Identity verification is an important step in the security screening process.
3. Arrive two hours early.
This will give you time to arrive by public transit/rideshare, park your car, check bags, go through security screening, and find your gate.
4. If you plan to travel with a firearm, you must properly pack the firearm in a hard-sided, locked case in your checked bag and declare it with the airline at the ticket counter when checking in.
5. Be aware of new checkpoint screening technology.
The checkpoint at CRW has new state-of-the-art Computed Tomography (CT) scanners which improve threat detection capabilities for carry-on bags. You no longer need to remove 3-1-1 liquids or laptops.
6. Travel with ease with TSA PreCheck and ensure you have the TSA PreCheck mark on your boarding pass.
Those enrolled enjoy the benefits of faster checkpoint screening. The five-year membership costs just $78.
7. Call ahead to request passenger support.
8. Text or direct message @ AskTSA
Travelers can get assistance in real time by texting their question to #275-872 (“AskTSA”) or through @AskTSA on X (formerly known as Twitter) or Facebook Messenger.
9. Remain aware.
Travelers should report suspicious activities, and remember: If You See Something, Say Something™.
10. Show gratitude to frontline workers.
Thank a TSO, a gate agent, a flight attendant or someone who serves on the transportation frontlines.
For further explanation on the TSA’s tips, visit this link: https://www.tsa.gov/news/press/releases/2023/11/13/tsa-prepared-more-travelers-airport-security-checkpoints-expects
