INDIANAPOLIS — The Indianapolis Airport Authority anticipates about 500,000 passengers will fly out of Indianapolis International Airport between October 1 and October 26. This surge in travel coincides with fall breaks for local K-12 schools and universities, including Indiana University, Butler University, and Purdue University Indianapolis.
Megan Carrico, the airport’s senior director of public affairs, noted that the upcoming weekend will likely be the busiest, with October 4 expected to be particularly crowded, projecting around 23,000 travelers.
To accommodate the increased volume, airport staff levels will be heightened. Ticket counters and TSA checkpoints will open earlier, and restaurant hours will be adjusted to align with flight schedules. Carrico stated, “We’re staffing up in certain locations, supplementing staff when needed.”
Traveler Bailey Owens reported a smooth experience during her family’s trip to Orlando, stating, “It’s been pretty seamless so far. We got through security and everything with time enough to get lunch before we got on the plane.”
While travelers are always encouraged to arrive early, Carrico emphasized the importance of planning for additional time during peak hours of 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. She urged, “When we say get here two hours early, we definitely mean it, especially during that peak period.”
Additionally, the airport has introduced a TSA pilot program called “Gateside,” allowing TSA PreCheck travelers to greet or see off loved ones at the gate without a ticket. Although usage has been limited so far, Carrico believes interest will increase as the program develops. “It’s a great opportunity if you’ve got a loved one flying out to stay with them through the gate before they fly out or even greet them on the way home,” she added.
