Record Numbers Expected at Dallas Int'l

Denver International Airport officials will have their hands full managing what they expect to be record-breaking traffic this Thanksgiving week.

Passenger traffic in 2006 is about 10 percent ahead of last year, and that rate is expected to climb even higher by the end of the week.

More than 900,000 passengers passed through DIA during the Thanksgiving holiday in 2005, officials said.

"Just by following trends, this would be the biggest holiday travel we've ever seen," Steve Snyder, the airport spokesman, said Monday.

Not only will DIA air traffic controllers be busy in the tower directing pilots in the air and on the ground, but police and parking enforcement officers will be scrambling to keep motorists from blocking traffic around the terminal and directing them to their destinations.

Airlines are asking travelers to be at the ticket counter two hours in advance, and DIA officials are asking motorists to give themselves an extra 20 to 30 minutes on top of the two hours so that they can find parking spots and shuttle rides.

A tip from Snyder: Since most business travelers are not flying during the holiday, there should be more parking available in the garage next to the terminal.

INFOBOX

Other tips for takeoff

Allow plenty of time.

Travelers should be in line for check-in two hours before their flight. Check your flight's status before you leave home.

Minimize carry-ons by checking as much baggage as possible. Bags weighing more than 50 pounds cost extra.

Don't wrap gifts. Wrapped packages are subject to search and may need to be opened.

Restrictions on liquids

To remember the rules, think, 3-1-1

3 ounces or less of liquid or gel are allowed in carry-on luggage.

1 quart-size clear plastic zip-top baggie with all your 3-ounce containers.

1 baggie per traveler, taken out of carry-on luggage and in to a bin for security screening.

* Pudding, Jello, yogurt, and canned or jarred food are not allowed. Baby food is allowed but must be declared.

Check for all the most recent regulations.

Helpful phone numbers

* Check security screening wait times   303-342-TIPS (8477) also reports security wait times.

* For information on ground transportation    303-342-4059

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