Indianapolis, Indiana – The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is advising flying travelers to arrive early and pack wisely in anticipation of large volumes as the scene is set for the 107th running of the Indianapolis 500 on Sunday.
The TSA predicts a busy Monday at the international airport in central Indiana, particularly at security checks. Passengers are advised to arrive two hours prior to departure in order to speed up screening and to keep prohibited items, such as weapons, out of their carry-on luggage.
To prepare for major events like the Indy 500, TSA works closely with the airport and airlines. Checkpoints will be adequately staffed to handle the anticipated demand.
On Memorial Day, more than 22,000 persons are anticipated to be screened, with the busiest times of the day being from 5 to 7 a.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m. On Memorial Day in 2022 and 2019, only about 17,000 travelers were inspected at IND. Since the day following the 2012 Super Bowl, Monday is predicted to have the most travelers.
In addition to ensuring the security of IND passengers, TSA is crucial to the race’s overall security. The TSA is one of 28 federal entities that contribute resources to ensure the safety of spectators and the local public transportation system over the busy weekend. The federal coordinator for security for the Indy 500 is Indiana Federal Security Director Aaron Batt, who has been a vital player in security planning for this major event for the past seven years.
“We love to see race fans and holiday travelers coming through the checkpoint, but everyone plays a role during busy weekends like this one. Arriving at the airport with extra time and knowing what can and can’t be packed in carry-on and checked bags, as well as packing a little patience for our officers and your fellow passengers, will result in a better screening experience for everyone,” said Aaron Batt, Indiana federal security director.
Additionally, the organization provided five travel hints to use at the airport throughout the busy weekend.
1. TSA PreCheck members should make sure your Known Travel Number (KTN) is in your reservation.
o With over 15 million TSA PreCheck members it is essential that the passengers’ correct KTN and date of birth are on the reservation to “Travel with Ease.” TSA PreCheck passengers are low-risk travelers who do not need to remove shoes, belts, liquids, food, laptops, and light jackets at the TSA checkpoint.
2. Pack an empty bag and know before you go
o When airline passengers begin packing for travel with an empty bag, they are less likely to be stopped at the security checkpoint for having prohibited items. Prior to packing that empty bag, check TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool to know what is prohibited.
3. Give yourself plenty of time
o Summer travel will be busy, so plan ahead! Give yourself plenty of time to park or return a rental car, take a shuttle to the airport if needed, check in with your airline, check in bags with the airline, and prepare for the security checkpoint.
4. Be aware of new checkpoint technology and follow TSA guidance
o IND has installed new state-of-the-art advanced technology Computed Tomography (CT) scanners at every lane. All passengers traveling through IND are no longer required to remove their 3-1-1 liquids or laptops, but they must place every carry-on item, including bags, into a bin for screening.
5. Contact TSA with questions, compliments, complaints, or assistance
o If travelers have questions there are many ways to contact TSA. Individuals with disabilities, medical needs or other special circumstances may request passenger assistance at least 72 hours in advance by contacting our TSA Cares passenger support line at (855) 787-2227.
