Fresno International Airport
FRESNO, Calif. - The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates a record number of people will be screened through security checkpoints at Fresno International Airport (FAT) and nationwide this summer, surpassing 2019 pre-pandemic volumes. With high passenger volumes, officials with TSA and FAT are encouraging travelers to plan ahead and be prepared for the air travel experience.
TSA is committed to staffing the security checkpoint at FAT based on the number of travelers projected to depart the airport at various times during the day. The summer travel season will officially get underway around Memorial Day with current projections showing that at least 31,000 departing travelers will be screened weekly at FAT.
The busiest times at the checkpoint are 4:30 a.m. to 6 a.m.; 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and again 9:30 p.m. to midnight. The busiest days to travel locally and nationally are Thursdays and Fridays as well as Sundays and Mondays. TSA strives to get travelers through the general security screening process in less than 30 minutes and through TSA PreCheck screening in less than 10 minutes.
Due high passenger volumes at FAT, there will be periods during the day when the number of passengers who need to be screened by TSA will exceed the capacity of the security checkpoint. Because of these peaks, TSA is advising all travelers to plan ahead and arrive early to complete every step of the airport travel process.
“TSA began formulating its summer travel staffing and operational plan weeks ago to ensure that we would be prepared for what is expected to be a record-breaking summer travel season. We have also worked closely with airport officials to ensure we are all ready to welcome San Joaquin Valley residents and visitors to FAT,” said TSA Federal Security Director Fred Lau who oversees security operations at FAT. “We look forward to providing a top-notch screening experience for passengers including excellent customer service and delivering the highest level of security. Travelers can help us carry out our responsibilities by arriving early and prepared for the security screening experience.”
TSA PreCheck enrollment at FAT
To help travelers be prepared for the summer travel season, airport officials are hosting a TSA PreCheck® enrollment opportunity for five days starting Monday, May 15. Enrollment will be offered from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.
TSA PreCheck expedites a traveler’s airport security checkpoint screening process and allows travelers to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belt, keep their laptop in its case and their travel size liquids, gels and aerosols in a carry-on. 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. More than 85 airlines participate in the program.
“On average, 89% of TSA PreCheck-eligible travelers wait five minutes or less to be screened through the security checkpoint. This statistic alone should motivate travelers to enroll as a Trusted Traveler and streamline their airport travel experience,” said FAT Director of Aviation Henry Thompson. “We are excited to bring this enrollment opportunity to our customers. Now is the time to enroll in TSA PreCheck if you want to benefit from it this summer. TSA PreCheck is even more valuable when returning from your trip through the major hubs we serve.”
Appointments for the enrollment center at FAT are currently available. Travelers are asked to complete the pre-enrollment application and make an appointment online.
To finalize enrollment, an in-person visit is required at the enrollment center. The online, pre-enrollment process typically takes about five minutes to complete. After entering the requested information type in the location “Fresno, CA” and click on the search button and select “Pop-Up: FAT 5/15-5/19.” Applicants can select an appointment time using the drop down menu to choose a date and time. The drop-down menu will show the first available time available, but individuals can choose a different date and/or time using that drop-down menu.
Applicants must bring documentation proving identity and citizenship status. Visit the TSA PreCheck Enrollment by IDEMIA website for a list of required documents to prove identity and U.S. citizenship.
The application fee is $78 and is good for five years. Fingerprints and a photograph also are required during the in-person enrollment session. After completing enrollment, approved applicants should receive their Known Traveler Number (KTN) within five to seven days. Individuals can check their application status online.
Approved travelers should enter the provided KTN in the “Known Traveler Number” field in every airline reservation. The KTN can also be added to the traveler’s profile with an airline, where it will be stored for future reservations.
To date, more than 15 million people have enrolled in TSA PreCheck nationwide. TSA continues to encourage travelers to enroll in the program.
Summer travel tips
Travelers have the ability to impact the efficiency of the airport travel experience. Because there is no substitute for being prepared, TSA and airport officials recommend the following:
Pack smart. Travelers should be aware of the contents of their carry-on bags prior to leaving home. Ensure that carry-ons do not contain prohibited items since they slow down the security screening process. To determine whether an item is allowed or prohibited in carry-on luggage, download the MyTSA app and use the “What Can I Bring?” feature. Another option is to snap a picture of an item and send it to @AskTSA on Twitter or Facebook Messenger for real-time assistance. Travelers can also send a question by texting “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872).
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. If a traveler brings liquids in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces, TSA will have to conduct a bag check, which slows the screening process for that traveler and everyone in line behind them. Any liquids in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces should travel in checked baggage.
Listen for guidance from TSA officers. Whether you travel regularly or infrequently, it is important to listen to the direction provided in the security checkpoint. There may be information on new technologies that 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.
Common prohibited item brought to the checkpoint at FAT. TSA at FAT screens a high number of travelers who are outdoor enthusiasts, many of whom bring their walking sticks to the security checkpoint. Please note that walking sticks must travel in checked luggage since they are prohibited in the cabin of the aircraft.
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.
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