Nov. 26--Unlike many airports, which are just beginning to feel the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, Huntsville International already has seen its Thanksgiving peak.
"We are a more heavily traveled business market," airport public relations manager Chantel Minish said. "Everyone has been trying to squeeze in one more business trip before the holiday."
This week still is a busy time for the airport, as it is for highways. But there are ways to make holiday travel less stressful, whether by land or air.
Trooper Curtis Summerville said travelers should winterize vehicles and research travel conditions before they start their journey.
"This time of year, because it's cold, we recommend vehicle maintenance," Summerville said. "Check your fluids, tires, belts, etc."
Summerville said motorists should watch their speed. Don't text and drive, he said. If traveling with family, get someone else to read the text.
Children get restless during car trips. Summerville suggested to give children some type of activity and take regular rest breaks.
"Once you get where you are going, we want you to have a good time," Summerville said. "But if there is alcohol involved, have a plan. Have a designated driver, place to stay or just don't drink at all."
State troopers are preparing for inclement weather, he said. All available troopers will be out working the holiday. But Summerville said, contrary to some theories, troopers don't want to write tickets.
"We want people to abide by all traffic laws so we don't have to write any tickets," Summerville said. "It's not a money-making tool. We want to re-emphasize changing behaviors for safe driving."
Linda Crockett, of the Alabama Department of Transportation, said highway travel is expected to be heavy. As a relief, ALDOT said there would be no temporary lane closures on Alabama interstates after noon Wednesday through midnight Sunday.
ALDOT said roadwork will be limited. However, emergency lane closures may be possible dependent on specific circumstances on interstates and other roadways, Crockett said.
Jennifer Schuller, meteorologist at the Huntsville National Weather Service, said the weather will be clear for the holiday.
"The travel should be OK, but it's going to be very cold," Schuller said. "If they're going out of town, pack well."
Airport travelers can take advantage of electronic boarding pass capabilities at the Huntsville airport.
"That can cut down on some time," Minish said. "You can check in with your airline before you leave the house. You can get your boarding pass on your phone."
Minish suggested travelers to not underestimate the airport's usual ease of "getting in and out" because of the holiday. She said to arrive an hour and half before a flight's scheduled departure and two hours before departure for international flights.
She said fliers should check the weather before leaving for the airport because it can create delays.
"You have to be mindful not just of Huntsville, but the surrounding cities you're trying to go to," she said.
Leah Cayson can be reached at 256-340-2445 or [email protected].
Copyright 2013 - The Decatur Daily, Ala.
