Press Alt+1 for screen-reader mode, Alt+0 to cancelAccessibility Screen-Reader Guide, Feedback, and Issue Reporting

Thanksgiving travel tips from Charleston International

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

With the construction of a 3,000 space parking garage underway, travelers should expect a limited amount of parking spaces at the terminal and be prepared to 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 passengers departing Charleston were screened by the TSA on those two days alone.

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

  • Arrive early. It is recommended passengers arrive two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before departure for international flights.
  • Plan to park. Parking spaces fill quickly during busy travel periods. will be at a premium so drivers should allow extra time for remote parking and shuttle service to the terminal. If you have to park in remote/seasonal parking, complimentary shuttle service is provided.
  • Pack carry-on luggage wisely. Head over to “What Can I Bring” on the Transportation Security Administration website to see what can be packed in carry on and checked baggage. Passengers should be prepared to remove electronic devices, liquids, powders and food to be separately screened by the TSA.
  • Check flight status with air carriers or on the airport website at www.iflyCHS.com

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 www.iflychs.com/dining .

“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.”

-CHS-