RDU Airport, NC – Raleigh-Durham International Airport today launched its holiday travel program, “Get Ready For Takeoff.” The passenger awareness campaign will offer holiday travelers information and tips on packing, security checkpoint, parking and airport services.
Airport officials expect nearly 200,000 people to pass through the airport during the Thanksgiving holiday travel period, which begins on November 25 and lasts until December 2.
As part of “Get Ready for Takeoff,” holiday travelers will be reminded to:
-
Limit carry-on items to one bag and one personal item.
-
Remove all sharp objects from carry-on bags before arriving at the airport. Items most commonly left behind at the security checkpoint are scissors and pocketknives.
-
Leave gifts unwrapped. Gifts may be unwrapped during the security process.
-
Arrive early. Airlines recommend that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure.
-
Follow the electronic signs. Over 16,000 parking spaces will be available to passengers. Electronic signs will guide drivers to open parking lots. Shuttle bus service from the airport’s parking lots to the terminals runs every 15 minutes.
-
Bring a government-issued photo ID.
-
Place cell phone, pager, keys and other metal objects in carry-on bags before proceeding through security checkpoint.
-
Remember e-ticket confirmation. E-ticket travelers will be required to show written confirmation from their airline confirming a reservation.
The “Get Ready for Takeoff” campaign will feature:
“Get Ready for Takeoff” Travel Guide
The “Get Ready for Takeoff” brochure provides important tips and information on packing, parking, security checkpoint and traveling with children. Brochures will be handed out at parking tollbooths and will also be available on airport shuttles and in the terminals. The airport also recommends that passengers visit its web site at www.rdu.com, where it has set up a holiday travel guide that contains in depth and up-to-date information.
Holiday Helpers
Staff volunteers will be deployed in the terminals on peak travel days to lend a helping hand to holiday travelers. Additional visitor information booths will also be set up in the terminals. Volunteers will answer questions, direct lines and advise passengers at security checkpoint. Holiday helpers can be spotted in special blue t-shirts with the RDU logo on the back. RDU volunteer ambassadors will be wearing red vests and white shirts.
Courtesy Parking Patrol Program
Airport personnel will be available to assist customers with locating lost cars, dead batteries and general airport information.
New Traveler Concessions
Passengers traveling for the first time since last holiday season will find over 30 new restaurants and retail outlets located primarily past security checkpoint. On the ticketing level, food kiosks will be available for passengers and family and friends.
Holiday Performance Series
Once again the airport will hold its annual holiday performance series in both terminals. Local artists will bring the Triangle’s music indoors to entertain and soothe weary travelers. Musical styles will range from traditional holiday carols to bluegrass, jazz and string quartets. Passengers can find a performance schedule in the terminals and on the airport’s web site as part of its holiday travel guide.
RDU’s “Get Ready for Takeoff” is one of many campaigns airports, airlines and the Transportation Security Administration are implementing to provide passengers with information that will enhance their holiday travel experience.
###