Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Shares Travel Tips Ahead of Labor Day Weekend

AUSTIN, Texas – Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is gearing up for a busy Labor Day weekend as travelers head out for one last summer getaway.

AUS anticipates elevated passenger volumes across the airport property beginning Thursday, September 3, through Tuesday, September 8, including potentially longer wait times on airport roadways, at parking facilities, airline ticket counters and security checkpoints during peak travel periods. Airport staff, airline partners, TSA, and other airport partners are coordinating efforts across campus to provide passengers with a safe, efficient, and positive travel experience.
 
Several days are expected to see 30,000+ departing passengers, with the busiest travel days projected to be:
 
📅 Thursday, September 3
📅 Friday, September 4
📅 Tuesday, September 8
 

Before You Head Out for Labor Day Weekend

A little planning can go a long way during a busy travel period:
 

• Arrive early: AUS recommends arriving 2.5 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight. Passengers should allow additional time for pre-security activities, including checking bags, returning a rental vehicle and finding parking.
• Expect holiday crowds: Parking, airline ticket counters, baggage check-in, rental car returns and TSA security checkpoints may take longer than usual.
• Stay in the loop: Check with your airline for the latest flight information and monitor weather conditions at your destination, as weather can impact flights nationwide.
• Follow AUS on X: Get real-time travel updates, airport alerts, passenger tips and other important information throughout the holiday weekend.

For more travel tips, go to our website: flyaustin.com/travel-security-austin-bergstrom-international-airport
 

Parking, Pickups and Drop-Offs

Holiday travel means busy roadways and parking facilities, so passengers should plan ahead:

• Advance parking reservations and availability: Passengers can secure a spot in advance or check real-time parking availability before coming to the airport at ABIAParking.com or by calling 512-530-3300.
• Choose your drop-off level: Passengers can be dropped off on either the upper-level Departures roadway or lower-level Arrivals roadway. Choosing the less congested level may provide quicker access to the terminal.
• Allow extra time for traffic: Roadways around the airport may be busier than usual. Drivers should remain alert, follow posted signs, and use caution around active construction zones.

Passengers may notice ongoing construction across the airport property as part of the Journey With AUS expansion program. These improvements are designed to modernize AUS and prepare the airport for continued growth.
 

Packing Tips

Before heading to the airport, passengers should make sure their carry-on and checked luggage follow TSA security requirements.

• ✔️ Follow TSA packing guidelines for all luggage, including strollers, car seats and diaper bags.
• ✔️ Remember the 3-1-1 rule: Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit in one quart-sized bag per passenger.
• ✔️ Firearms must be unloaded, secured in a locked TSA-approved hard-sided case, packed in checked baggage and declared to the airline during check-in.
• ✔️ Replica or toy weapons that resemble firearms or knives are not permitted through security checkpoints.

 
When in doubt, visit TSA.gov before heading to the airport to check whether an item is permitted through security.
 

Security Checkpoints

The Barbara Jordan Terminal has four TSA security checkpoints, and all four checkpoints lead to every gate inside the terminal. Most checkpoints open daily at 3 a.m.
 
Checkpoint 1
✔️ General Screening
✔️ Known Crew Member
✔️ Priority/Premium Screening
✔️ ADA Screening
✔️ CLEAR for General Screening
Checkpoint 2
✔️ TSA PreCheck
Checkpoint 3
✔️ TSA PreCheck
✔️ TSA PreCheck Touchless ID
✔️ CLEAR with TSA PreCheck
✔️ Active-Duty Service Members-Front of the Line Lane
Checkpoint 4
✔️ General Screening
✔️ ADA Screening
 

Accessibility and Passenger Support

AUS offers several services to help passengers navigate the airport and get the assistance they need:

• Aira Explorer: Travelers who are blind or have low vision can use the Aira Explorer app for on-demand visual interpreting assistance, including help navigating the airport, reading signs and receiving real-time support from trained agents.
• GoodMaps: The GoodMaps app provides accessible wayfinding for travelers who are blind, have low vision, are deaf or hard of hearing, or have other accessibility needs.
• Mobility Assistance Zone: Rideshares, taxis and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicles (WAVs) can pick up passengers with mobility needs at the Mobility Assistance Zone. Passengers can request assistance through a wheelchair attendant, at the Airport Information Desk in front of baggage claim 3 or 5, by calling 512-530-2242 or by using a white paging phone located throughout the Barbara Jordan Terminal.
• Wheelchair assistance: Passengers who need wheelchair assistance should coordinate directly with their airline.
• TSA Cares: Travelers who may need additional screening assistance can contact TSA Cares at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel.
• Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program: AUS participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, which allows passengers with non-visible disabilities to discreetly signal that they may need additional time or support.
• Service animals and pet relief areas: Pet relief areas are available both before and after security. The post-security pet relief area is near Gate 9, while pre-security areas are located outside on the lower-level east and west sides of the terminal.

 
Additional AUS staff will be working throughout the terminal during peak travel days to assist passengers with questions, directions and other needs.
 
For the latest travel information, construction updates through Journey With AUS and additional travel tips, visit flyaustin.com/expansion-development-program