Fresno Yosemite International Airport

11/22/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Tips

Fresno Yosemite International Airport

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Tips

Fresno, CA - Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) anticipates a busy Thanksgiving holiday travel period beginning Friday, November 22 through Monday, December 2, 2024. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) projects the three busiest days at airports nationwide will be Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday.

During this busy holiday period, FAT recommends that travelers be prepared and provides the following holiday travel tips:

Arrive Early

  • Passengers are strongly encouraged to arrive early at the airport two hours or more prior to domestic flight departures and three hours or more prior to international flights. Busiest times at the checkpoint are 4:00 a.m. - 6:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. - 12:00 a.m.

Prepare for TSA Security Screening

  • Pack smart by starting with empty bags. By packing for travel with empty bags, passengers are less likely to bring prohibited items through a TSA checkpoint. Check for prohibited items by using the "What Can I Bring?" page at TSA.gov .
  • Review TSA's 3-1-1 Liquids Rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags.
  • Electronic devices such as cellphones, laptops or gaming consoles and other personal valuables should be placed in your personal item or carry-on bag, not your checked bag.
  • Passengers in need of additional assistance during the security screening process are encouraged to contact TSA Cares.
  • Be prepared for any scenario. Have your photo identification and boarding pass ready. This will prevent slowing down the screening process.
  • Traveling with Food Tip: If you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it, or pour it, the TSA considers this item a liquid. And if it's larger than 3.4 ounces, then the item should go in a checked bag. See more food for thought at TSA Thanksgiving travel tips.

Monitor Airline Flight Status

  • Download airline apps to receive real-time updates such flight status, boarding times, gate numbers and any other important announcements.
  • Travelers are advised to immediately contact their airline if their flight has been impacted.
  • Medications should be kept on your person in the event of delayed checked, or gate checked carry-on baggage.

Plan for Parking, Ground Transportation, and Passenger Pickup

  • Parking is in high demand during peak travel periods. Keep an alternate parking lot in mind in case your first choice is no longer available upon arrival.
  • Rideshare drop-off and pick-up area, Fresno Area Express (FAX), and V-Line are in front of the terminal Departures curb at the center median.
  • Taxi service is available across from the Baggage Claim doors at the center median.
  • A free Cell Phone Waiting Area is conveniently located near the terminal to accommodate friends and family who are picking up arriving passengers. Drivers must stay with their vehicles.
  • Parking and ground transportation maps are available at flyfresno.com .

Holiday Entertainment at FAT

  • The Holiday Music Program returns on Monday, November 25 for the eighth straight year with live musical performances by a talented lineup of local pianists. As part of the Airport's Arts & Culture Program, these musicians will entertain travelers and create a festive holiday vibe throughout the season.
  • Several decorated and illuminated trees, including a Patriotic Tree, set the holiday mood in the terminal and giant holiday themed selfie stations welcome friends and family to capture holiday photos.

Health and Safety

Thanksgiving Travel Updates

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Fresno Yosemite International Airport - Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) is one of the largest drivers in economic activity in the Central San Joaquin Valley. Domestic and international carriers serving FAT offer Valley travelers nonstop flights to Atlanta, Chicago (Seasonal), Dallas/Fort Worth, Dallas Love Field (Seasonal), Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle, Guadalajara, León, and Morelia in Mexico.

Fresno Yosemite International Airport and Fresno Chandler Executive Airport are municipally owned entities operating as a self-supporting enterprise.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram @iflyfresno or visit our website at flyfresno.com.

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