RDU Offers Tips for July 4th Travelers

RDU Airport, NC – Officials at Raleigh-Durham International Airport are advising travelers who will be flying to their July 4 holiday destinations to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight departs. Passengers are also encouraged to inspect carry-on luggage for prohibited items, such as knives and scissors, before leaving for the airport. All sharp items should be placed in luggage that will be checked in at the ticket counter.

Travelers should also be reminded to bring a government-issued ID and that only one carry-on item and one personal item, such as a purse or briefcase, are permitted through the security checkpoint. All electronic items, such as laptops, cellular phones and children's toys, are subject to additional screening.

As many families prepare to travel this holiday weekend, airport officials offer the following reminders.

Children must be removed from strollers and carriers before proceeding through the security screening area.
All carry-on items, including strollers, child seats, diaper bags, blankets and toys, must go through security screening
procedures.
All bags hanging on and carried under strollers must be removed and put through the X-ray machine.
To expedite the screening process, passengers should collapse and fold strollers and place them on the X-ray belt.
Sharp or pointed toys should be packed in checked luggage.
If children can walk, they should go through the metal detector at security checkpoint on their own.
If a child is traveling alone, families can make special arrangements with their airline to accompany the child to the departure gate. Parents should contact their airline before arriving at the airport.

Travelers parking at the airport are reminded to watch the electronic signs, which will provide current information on lots and space availability. If parking in the airport's park and ride lots, courtesy buses pick up every 15 minutes to take passengers to the terminals.

A complete list of prohibited items and additional tips for families can be found at www.tsa.dot.gov.

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