Independence Day Travel Weekend – What to Expect

After a year of COVID-19 restrictions, passenger volume continues to grow at the nation’s busiest airport. More than 1.5 million people are expected to travel from, to, or through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) this Independence Day weekend between Wednesday, June 30 to Monday, July 5. ATL officials are working closely with Airport stakeholders and partners to ensure that passengers have a safe, efficient, and pleasant journey through ATL.

“After a year of quarantine and limited travel, our passengers are back.  We now stand at approximately 70 percent of our pre-COVID daily flight operations and passenger throughput levels,” said Airport General Manager Balram “B” Bheodari. “We are thrilled to see our passengers return and we are well prepared for the increase in volume.”  “Our growing number of travelers speaks to our country’s resilience, and here at ATL, we are excited to welcome all of guests back to Hartsfield-Jackson,” said Jan Lennon, Deputy General Manager of Operations. “To ease passenger flow here at ATL, we are working diligently and have implemented solid plans to enhance customer service efficiency.”

ATL officials remain committed to providing a secure environment. Local, state, and federal law enforcement officials remain hyper-vigilant to any threats posed to the traveling community and will maintain a robust and visible presence at Hartsfield-Jackson.

TSA also stands ready and prepared to provide passengers with a safe screening process.

“We’ve prepared for and are expecting heavier than normal passenger volumes for the upcoming holiday weekend, with Thursday, Friday, and Monday showing the highest numbers,” said Robert Spinden, TSA Federal Security Director for Georgia. “We urge passengers to be inside the airport two hours prior to their scheduled departure time and to thoroughly check their bags for prohibited items before heading to the airport.”

During this busy period, passengers are also encouraged to keep informed through Hartsfield-Jackson’s website. ATL.com provides immediate updates on parking, security wait times, flight information, and concessions options.

Here’s an overview of what passengers need to know as they prepare to travel during this holiday period:

How Soon Should I Arrive at the Airport?
Passengers are urged to arrive in the airport at least two hours prior to scheduled departure time. Travelers are reminded to take into account the increased volume of drivers on area roadways and plan accordingly.

Do I Have To Wear A Mask?
The federal face mask mandate remains in effect on buses, trains, and other forms of public transportation traveling into, within, or out of the United States and in U.S. transportation hubs such as airports and stations.

What Can I Bring?
Planning and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns.

Where Can I Park?
Hartsfield-Jackson has over 29,000 parking spaces at 11 lots: Economy, Daily, and Hourly next to North and South Terminals; International Hourly; International Park and Ride; ATLWest; ParkATL Select; and ParkRide C.

Are Concessionaires Open?
Yes, concessionaires are open. Check ATL.com/Skypointe to find out which stores, restaurants, and services are available on each concourse. Additionally, QR code touch points are located throughout the Airport, which also provide passengers with concessions options.