RDM in record year, warns parking lot may fill up over holidays

Redmond Airport officials said Thursday that the airport has experienced a record number of passengers in 2017 and expects that trend to continue over the upcoming holiday travel season. They warned that the increased travel volume will lead to limited parking availability at the airport — and times when the parking lots are full.

Travelers are encouraged to check RDM’s website at http://www.flyrdm.com for availability before leaving their residence. Being prepared for air travel and parking will make for a more efficient and pleasant journey, the airport said in a news release.

Airport officials will update parking availability on the website every 30 minutes and suggest using alternate travel ride share options during this holiday season.

“It is important for travelers to understand we may reach our parking capacity a number of times throughout the holidays, and we encourage them to seek alternative arrangements,” said Airport Director Zachary Bass.

Airport parking rates are $1.00 for the first 30 minutes, after 31 minutes the $2.00 hourly rate is effective. Cash, credit and debit cards are accepted forms of payment. Maximum daily parking cost is $10.00 and the seventh day free. The “cell phone waiting” area is free and located across the street from the Airport on Salmon Avenue. The curb at the Terminal is for active loading and unloading only, no parking or waiting is allowed, due to Federal regulations. (Parking citations are $50.00) Airport parking is anticipated to reach capacity, please consider ride share options

Passengers should arrive no later than two hours prior to the boarding time of your flight. Boarding lounge amenities include a children’s play area, a free book exchange, a coffee shop, a family friendly restaurant and a full -service bar (located on the 2 nd floor, post-security) open daily at 10:00 A.M.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires travelers to place all electronics larger than a cell phone alone in bins for X-ray screening in standard lanes. There are no changes to what travelers can bring through the checkpoint; food and liquid items must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Electronics and books continue to be allowed in carry-on bags.

f traveling with gifts, please leave them unwrapped, officials said.

While state law allows marijuana possession, air service is regulated by federal law which prohibits marijuana possession. More information about traveling with allowed/prohibited items is available at www.tsa.gov .

Be prepared to leave, or arrive, in winter weather conditions that may present slippery or hazardous conditions. Allow extra time for driving and walking, safely, in winter conditions. Visit www.flyrdm.com for links to airlines, flight status, TSA, FAA, and other helpful information.