Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is gearing up for a swell in passenger traffic as the Austin City Limits Music Festival draws near. The airport is projecting over 35,000 departing passengers on peak days across two weekends in October, including Oct. 3, 5-7, and 10, 12-14. Travelers are being encouraged to arrive at least 2.5 hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international, to navigate anticipated delays, according to a press release from the City of Austin.
Aiming to smoothly handle the increase in volume, airport officials are advising passengers to not only arrive early but also to pre-plan parking and check real-time availability at ABIAParking.com. Additionally, AUS has let out that construction activities might be encountered, and shuttle services could face delays due to festival traffic. The advisories come as the city prepares to welcome a horde of music enthusiasts ready to groove to the festival's lineup.
In the spirit of quick and efficient transit, strategy is key; travelers are urged to streamline their check-in process by utilizing mobile boarding passes, self-service kiosks, or curbside check-in where available. Clear skies lie ahead for those without checked bags who can bypass lines at ticket counters, a move that's advisable, especially for carriers offering free or discounted checked luggage. As for security, AUS has relaxed some protocols—shoes can stay on during screening—but remember, restrictions on carry-on liquids and other prohibited items remain firmly in place. Event merch is best kept in carry-on luggage to prevent checked baggage delays, as noted in the City of Austin's release.
Assistance throughout AUS is robust, with options ranging from ADA-compliant shuttles to a Passenger Support Specialist via TSA Cares, which should be booked 72 hours prior to flight time. Info on the TSA's passenger assistance program can be found by contacting TSA Cares or visiting their website. For eats and beats, the airport boasts a variety of local restaurants and live music, contributing to Austin's famed hospitable culture. Those flying Allegiant or Frontier, meanwhile, should head directly to AUS's South Terminal—a distinct structure with its own parking area.
In light of the imminent traffic uptick, AUS has scheduled a media availability session on the morning of Oct. 1 to dish out travel tips. Local reporters eager to cover the airport's readiness plans are to RSVP by 5 p.m. on Sept. 30, as mentioned in the City of Austin's announcement. To accommodate media personnel, parking arrangements and security inspections will be organized by contacting AUS's Public Information Office.
For detailed preparations and on-the-day navigation, AUS implores travelers to refer to recent travel tips and consider the ongoing construction improvement that may alter the typical airport experience. With some planning and patience, festival-goers and regular passengers alike can expect to sail through to their destinations with minimal fuss.
