Redmond Airport, TSA expect big numbers during holidays

Official offers tips to make your trip through RDM a smooth one

REDMOND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Friday is expected to be one of the biggest travel days of the holiday season.

On an average day, the Redmond Municipal Airport sees about 2,500 people throughout its TSA security lines.

On Friday and this upcoming holiday week, it's expecting to see well over that number.

Airport Director Zachary Bass said Thursday even though there is a lot of traffic expected in this one particular week, the busiest season for the airport is actually during the summer.

He shared tips with NewsChannel 21 on how travelers can ensure they make their flights.

"A lot of our aircraft go to a larger airport in the early morning to make connections," Bass said. "So early in the morning, we have 10 to 11 flights that leave, all within an hour. It is our busiest time, and it is when we see TSA traffic back up.

"Make sure that in the morning, you're giving yourself two hours, especially if there is any weather, and again, make sure you're checking parking."

Bass suggests checking the Redmond airport website ahead of time, to see about parking availability. He also says to make sure you know what's allowed through the TSA lines, to avoid being stopped for quantity sizes.