GRB, ATW passengers urged to arrive early, pack smart this weekend

GREEN BAY -- As the NFL Draft continues, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared to handle an increase in the number of travelers who will be flying out of Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) and Appleton International Airport (ATW) this weekend.

Specifically, both GRB and ATW will see high travel volumes on Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27. At ATW, the busiest times of day will be 5-6 a.m. and 12-3 p.m. At GRB, high travel volumes are expected to be sustained throughout both days, from 5 a.m. until 3 p.m.

“The best advice I can offer is to get to the airports at least two hours before your ticketed departure time,” TSA Wisconsin Federal Security Director Mark Lendvay said. “Travelers should come to the airport prepared to go through the security screening process. Make sure there are no prohibited items in your carry-on bag that would require an inspection from our officers. This process delays you, as well as everyone in line behind you.”

New checkpoint technologies, including computed tomography (CT) scanners and Credential Authentication Technology (CAT or CAT-2) identity verification, are in place at ATW and GRB. These critical technology investments improve security effectiveness; increase security efficiency; and enhance the passenger experience. Because not every airport or lane employs the same technology, it is important for travelers to listen to and follow the guidance offered by TSA officers as they approach the checkpoint.

Packing smart starts at home, and passengers should always know the contents of their carry-on bag prior to coming to the security checkpoint. TSA has multiple resources available to passengers to help them determine whether an item is permitted in carry-on baggage, checked baggage, either or neither. Travelers can use the “Can I Bring?” feature on the TSA website or on the free downloadable myTSA app. Travelers can also tweet to @AskTSA or send a text message to ASKTSA (275-872) if they have a travel question or are unsure if an item is allowed through security in a carry-on bag. Just snap a picture or send a question and get real-time assistance.

Travelers should also keep these tips in mind while traveling:

1. Remember the 3-1-1 liquid rule. Each passenger may carry-on one quart-sized bag of liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less. Oversized liquids need to be placed in checked baggage or disposed of before approaching the checkpoint. Common items that cause delays include bottles of water, sunscreen, toothpaste, and shampoo. Spreadable cheeses also need to be checked, if over 3.4 ounces. If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it, or pour it, it counts as a liquid. Travelers are permitted to bring empty water bottles to refill post-security. 
2. Do not attempt to bring a firearm through a TSA checkpoint; doing so compromises the safety and security of other passengers and our officers in the checkpoint. Passengers who do attempt to bring a firearm through a checkpoint can expect to receive a civil penalty (fines may be as high as $15,000) and lose eligibility for TSA PreCheck. Additionally, local law enforcement will be called, and these passengers will receive enhanced screening, which can further delay them.
3. Get to the airport early. Travelers should give themselves plenty of time for all steps of the travel journey, including parking or returning a rental car, checking bags, going through security, and making their way to their gate. Passengers should also check with their airlines on flight boarding times and checked baggage cutoff times. If you find yourself waiting in a security checkpoint lane, use that time to remove items from your pockets and place them into a carry-on bag. Get your ID and boarding pass ready to present at the TSA travel document checking podium.
4. Bring an acceptable ID. Before heading to the airport, travelers should make sure they have acceptable identification. 
5. Request passenger support. Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and/or medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours prior to travel with any questions about screening procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint. TSA Cares also arranges assistance at the checkpoint for travelers with specific needs.