AUS Prepares for Increased Passenger Traffic During Spring Break and Spring

City of Austin

AUSTIN, Texas - As Austin's Spring Festival Season and Spring Break approach, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is preparing for a significant increase in passenger traffic beginning Thursday, March 12, and continuing through the end of the month.

Several days are expected to exceed 30,000+ departing passengers, with the busiest travel days projected to be:

• Sunday, March 22
• Monday, March 23
• Sunday, March 29
• Monday, March 30
• Sunday, April 5
• Monday, April 6

⏰ Plan Ahead: Arrive Early

AUS encourages passengers to:

• Arrive 2.5 hours before domestic departures
• Arrive 3 hours before international departures
• Allow extra time if checking bags, returning rental cars, or traveling during peak festival days

Travelers should check flight status and terminal information with their airline before heading to the airport.

Security Checkpoints & Screening Information

The Barbara Jordan Terminal now features four security checkpoints. The first checkpoints typically open daily at 3:00 a.m.

Checkpoint 1

• ✔️ General Screening
• ✔️ Known Crew Member
• ✔️ Priority/Premium Screening
• ✔️ ADA Screening
• ✔️ CLEAR for General Screening

Checkpoint 2

• ✔️ TSA PreCheck

Checkpoint 3

• ✔️ TSA PreCheck
• ✔️ CLEAR with TSA PreCheck

Checkpoint 4 (NEW)

• ✔️ General Screening

The new Checkpoint 4 is located on the far west side of the Barbara Jordan Terminal, and it provides easier access to Gates 22 and above.

All checkpoints lead to all the gates inside the main Barbara Jordan Terminal.

Passengers are encouraged to follow airport signage and staff guidance to determine the best checkpoint for their flight.

Avoid Delays at Security

• Liquids and aerosols must be 3.4 ounces or less in carry-on bags
• Firearms and weapons are strictly prohibited in carry-on bags and at TSA Checkpoints. Firearms must be locked in a TSA-approved hard case and checked in with your airline. Click here for more information about firearm safety from TSA: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/transporting-firearms-and-ammunition
• Event promotional items, bulky souvenirs, and giveaways should be packed in carry-on bags instead of checked luggage. These items often trigger security systems in checked baggage and may delay outbound luggage.

Unsure about an item? Visit TSA.gov or text "Travel" to AskTSA (275-872) for more information about prohibited items.

Parking & Ground Transportation

On-site parking is expected to fill quickly. Travelers should:

• Reserve parking at least 24 hours in advance at ABIAParking.com
• Check real-time availability at ABIAParking.com before arriving to the airport
• Use shuttle services, which run every 15-20 minutes from parking lots to the terminal

For curbside pick-up and drop-off, both the upper level (departures) and lower level (arrivals) are available. During heavy traffic congestion, passengers may use the less congested level for quicker access.

♿ Accessibility & Passenger Assistance

AUS continues to prioritize accessibility and customer service:

• The GoodMaps app offers wayfinding assistance for travelers who are blind, low vision, deaf, hard-of-hearing, or have other accessibility needs
• Passengers requiring wheelchair service should coordinate directly with their airline
• TSA Cares provides additional screening support for travelers who may need extra assistance (call 855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before travel)
• AUS participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program; passengers with non-visible disabilities can request a lanyard ahead of their trip for additional support and time while at AUS.

Save Time with Smart Check-In

• Use mobile boarding passes when possible
• Print boarding passes at self-service kiosks
• Take advantage of airline curbside check-in where available

Traveling from the South Terminal?

• Allegiant and Frontier passengers must use the South Terminal at 10000 Logistics Lane (near US 183 & Burleson Road). This terminal is not accessible from the main Barbara Jordan Terminal.
• AUS offers a shuttle service to this terminal, but parking on-site is recommended to save time.

The South Terminal remains operational through March 31, 2026, and this will be the final spring travel season before its closure.

Beginning April 1, 2026, Allegiant and Frontier Airlines will relocate to the Barbara Jordan Terminal, bringing all AUS airlines under one roof. The South Terminal will be vacated and removed to make way for future airfield improvements as part of the airport's long-term expansion plans.

Construction & Airport Improvements

Travelers may notice ongoing construction as part of the Journey With AUS expansion program. These improvements are designed to modernize facilities and prepare for continued growth in Central Texas.

For construction updates and active project information, visit AustinTexas.gov/AUSConstructionUpdates or follow AUS on social media.

Need Assistance?

AUS Department of Aviation staff will be present in the terminal during peak travel days to assist passengers. Travelers may call the Airport Operations Center at (512) 530-2242 or speak with any AUS team member for help.

For the latest updates, visit FlyAustin.com and follow AUS on social media.