Albany, NY (Dec. 20, 2001) - - - Albany International Airport is preparing for a busy holiday travel season. Airlines serving the Airport are reporting increased reservations with many of their aircraft operating at or near capacity beginning today and continuing through December 24th.

"We believe this holiday travel season will actually be busier than we initially expected," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, Chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority. "We have increased staffing at our security checkpoint and created additional parking spaces to make passengers' trips as enjoyable as possible."

Travelers are reminded that new security measures enacted by the Federal Aviation Administration now limit the number of carry-on items that are allowed beyond the security checkpoint. Each passenger is entitled to carry only one carry-on bag and one personal item through the checkpoint. Examples of personal items include laptop computers, handbags and briefcases.

Holiday gift packages are also considered to be carry-on or personal items. Passengers are cautioned not to wrap gifts until they have reached their final destinations. All gift packages are subject to inspection, and security screeners may find it necessary to unwrap any gift to positively identify the contents.

During the busy holiday period, the Airport Authority is advising travelers to arrive two hours before their scheduled departure time, especially during the early morning and late afternoon hours when travel is at its peak. This will ensure passengers have adequate time to complete the ticketing process, security checks, and pass through the security checkpoint to reach their gates on time.

Passengers are requested to have their driver's license or other photo ID available at the ticket counter. Passengers should have tickets, boarding passes or electronic ticket confirmation letters out and available for inspection at the security checkpoint. Laptop computers must be removed from carrying cases and placed on the x-ray machine before proceeding through the checkpoint.

The following checklist can help ensure flights are more enjoyable during the holiday season:

• Check flight status before leaving for the airport
• Arrive two hours before your flight
• Bring a photo ID
• Make sure carry-ons meet airline size specifications
• Place ID inside & outside of luggage
• Pack sharp items in checked luggage to avoid checkpoint delays
• Allow time between flights to make connections
• Do not wrap holiday gifts prior to flight

Once again, the Albany International Airport will entertain travelers with a variety of musical groups including Saxophone Santa, the Capital District Harmonic Club, Fiddlers Tour and Mood Swings.

Additional Airport parking will be available to holiday travelers. The Airport has expanded its Economy E-Lot and has constructed two overflow lots to accommodate the heavier than normal passenger loads. In addition, travelers are now able to use their E-Z Pass to pay for parking at the Airport's Garage, A, B, and E lots.

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