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Plan ahead for Thanksgiving travel

Thanksgiving is the busiest time of the year at Charleston International Airport. Flying for the holiday? Plan ahead and arrive early.

Last year, nearly 100,000 people traveled in and out of CHS during Thanksgiving week. The Wednesday before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving are typically the busiest days for travel, according to data compiled by the Transportation Security Administration at CHS. Last year nearly 15,000 departing passengers were screened by the TSA on those two days alone.

To get you ready for the busy week, here are some tips to make your travels easy and enjoyable.

  • Arrive early. It is recommended you arrive two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before departure for international flights.
  • Pack your carry-on luggage wisely. Head over to "What Can I Bring" on the TSA website to see what you can pack in your carry on and checked baggage. Be prepared to remove electronic devices, liquids, and food to be separately screened by the Transportation Security Administration.
  • Check your flight status with your airline or on the airport website at www.iflyCHS.com
  • Allow plenty of time to find parking. There are around 5,000 places to put your car, truck or SUV, but spaces fill quickly. If you have to park in our remote/seasonal lot, complimentary shuttle service is provided, but you will need a debit or credit card to pay when you leave.
Long lines arrive early

Once checked in, Charleston International offers a variety of shopping and dining for passengers to enjoy before boarding their flight. See what is available at https://www.iflychs.com/Connect/Dine.

“Thanksgiving is the kick off to the holiday travel season. With record-breaking numbers year after year, we expect to be busy this year as well,” said Paul G. Campbell Jr., Executive Director and CEO of the Charleston County Aviation Authority. “With just a bit of advance planning passengers can have an exceptional travel experience.”