REDMOND, Oregon - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates a record number of people will be screened through the security checkpoints at Redmond Municipal Airport (RDM) this summer, likely equaling or surpassing 2019, pre-pandemic volumes.
During the past two weeks, TSA has screened an average of 2.1 million people per day nationwide. Local travel volumes at RDM average more than 1,500 a day.
TSA continues to staff the security checkpoint based on the number of travelers projected to depart the airport at various times during the day. The busiest times at the checkpoint are 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. and again 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. The busiest days to travel locally and nationally are Thursdays and Fridays as well as Sundays and Mondays.
“Over the past several months, we have been preparing for a busy summer travel season. We are looking forward to providing a top-notch screening experience for passengers – both in terms of excellent customer service and delivering the highest level of security,” said TSA acting Federal Security Director Kathleen McDonald. “Every traveler can help us carry out our responsibilities by arriving early and prepared for the security screening experience.”
Travelers have the ability to impact the efficiency of the screening process. Because there is no substitute for beginning to prepare for your travels prior to leaving home and arriving at the airport, TSA encourages travelers to follow the tips below.
Listen for guidance from TSA officers. Some people may not have traveled recently, so it is important to listen to the direction provided in the security checkpoint. There may be information on new technologies that help reduce touchpoints and make for a more streamlined and convenient passenger experience, so listen up!
Empty your pockets prior to arriving in the checkpoint. Place wallets, phones, keys, sunglasses and other loose items from your pockets inside your carry-on bag instead of placing them in a bin. This will ensure personal items are not left behind.
Follow the rule for traveling with liquids. Gels, liquids and aerosols are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less in carry-on luggage. The general definition for this rule is that if you can spill it, spray it, pump it or pour it, then it is subject to the liquids restriction rule. Anything in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces should travel in checked baggage.
Pack smart. Travelers should be aware of the contents of their carry-on bags and make sure they are not bringing prohibited items to the security checkpoint. To determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage, download the MyTSA app and use the “Can I Bring?” feature. Another option is to contact @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger to get answers to your travel questions.
Enroll in TSA PreCheck®. Experience a smoother screening process by enrolling in TSA PreCheck®. Eligible travelers do not need to remove shoes, belts, light outerwear, laptops, electronics larger than a cell phone or travel-size liquids from carry-on luggage. Another benefit of the program is that children 12 and under are permitted to use the TSA PreCheck lane when traveling with an eligible parent or guardian on the same itinerary.
Give yourself plenty of time at the airport. Extra time may be needed for parking, at airline check-in counters and in the security checkpoint. There is no substitute for arriving early and prepared.