All information below is subject to change. Please note that curbside check-in will not be permitted and due to anticipated increased security, we recommend that travelers arrive approximately two hours prior to their departure time.

Click here for a complete list of the latest information and links.

Tips for Travel Under Increased Security Initiatives

The airport security screening procedures that travelers have become accustomed to have changed due to recent events in the United States. To prepare customers to travel under heightened security measures, we have prepared the following checklist for travelers in order to ensure their safety and minimize disruptions at the airport.

Before Travel

Understand that the airlines have worked closely with the Federal Aviation Administration to ensure that airport facilities and aircraft meet all security requirements.

Book with confidence. Contact us to set up your travel itinerary. E-Tickets remain available and offer optimal flexibility to customers.

How to Pack

Change your mindset. Airport security screening procedures will be significantly more stringent than before. Items in one’s suitcase that may have passed through before may not be accepted onboard today.

Complete a personal luggage inventory. Empty out items in the “always packed” suitcase. Look at each item and evaluate whether an object could be scrutinized by airport security. (This includes items found in manicure kits, etc.) Consider removal of anything that could be perceived as threatening, or may raise suspicion at a security-screening checkpoint. No knives of any size will be accepted.

Anticipate having to open a bag for security inspection. Pack efficiently, placing smaller items together in a pouch or bag. Avoid over packing so that carryon luggage and checked suitcases open and close with ease.

Make sure that each suitcase has a name tag securely affixed to it, along with identification inside your suitcase. 

Verify possession of a government-issued photo identification card or passport. Customers will not be allowed to check-in without proper identification.
Bring E-Ticket confirmation to the airport.

Tips for Travel Under Increased Security Initiatives

Getting to the Airport

Before proceeding to the airport, call the airline directly or your travel agency to confirm flight status.

Expect restricted airport parking. (Tampa International Airport Short Term parking is open but your car will be searched upon entry) We are recommending using off-site parking.

Arrive early. Passengers are requested to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before scheduled departures for domestic flights, and at least 3 hours before international flights.

Upon Arrival at Airport

Leave no vehicle or baggage unattended. Airport security will be completing thorough sweeps of airport properties. Expect to see an increased presence of law enforcement personnel outside and inside the terminal building.

Proceed inside terminal with luggage. Curbside check-in and “off airport” checked baggage options are unavailable.

E-Ticket customers without luggage may check in at an E-Service center. (Some airports may not provide this option.)

E-Ticket and paper ticket customers with luggage to check may proceed to the ticket counter. Maintain baggage receipts for verification at destination.

At the Security Checkpoint

Access beyond security restricted to passengers and airport employees only.

Have ticket paperwork available, along with Proper ID. Prepare to empty pockets of coins, metals etc.

Prepare to demonstrate operation of electronic equipment such as laptops, cell phones, etc.

Be Patient. Do Not make jokes about security. Comply with all security instructions.

Expect increased passenger and baggage security screening. Wand checks and full-Body hand searches may be expected


Tips for Travel Under Increased Security Initiatives

At the Gate

Leave no bag unattended. Maintain sense of awareness. Expect to see law enforcement personnel and dogs.

Keep ticket paperwork and identification available.

Expect to see teams of individuals board the aircraft before general boarding in order to sweep the aircraft as an added security precaution. These individuals may board the aircraft from inside the terminal building, or may enter and exit via jet bridge stairs.

Pay attention to announcements. Board the aircraft as directed by gate agents. Do not wait until the last minute to board the aircraft.

Onboard the aircraft

Expect to see random searches of service personnel, flight crews, and equipment.

Listen to and follow crew instructions at all times. Flight crews are trained to ensure passenger safety & comfort.

Be patient if departure is delayed. Passengers boarding and baggage loading are being carefully coordinated by ground handling crew.

Upon Arrival at Destination

Proceed through the terminal beyond security. Meeting parties will be restricted to areas outside security checkpoints.

Have Luggage receipts available when retrieving luggage for verification.

Above all have a safe but happy trip. Customers we have talked with upon their return have said the flights have plenty of room, everything is running smoothly, the employees are friendly and flying is actually a more pleasant experience than it has been in a while due to the more orderly way things are being done and the reduction in crowds. They say planes are cleaner and departing on time in almost every case. The fares are low, hotels are offering great rates as are rental cars and cruises. Now is a fine time to take a trip or vacation. Call us today and let us help you plan your next trip.