TSA warns of longer spring break wait times

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is warning that airport wait times could spike during spring break season.

The TSA said Monday it expects to screen more than 65 million travelers this month, which is a 7 percent increase from last March. The agency is preparing for the uptick in travel, though it noted this could lead to longer airport security lines.

“Passenger preparedness can have a significant impact on wait times at security checkpoints nationwide,” TSA said in a statement. 

To save time, the TSA recommended passengers show up early, empty their pockets before walking through security checkpoints and make sure their cary-on bags do not contain prohibited items.

The TSA also offered another piece of spring break advice to travelers: “You’ll need to remove your shoes at the checkpoint, so wear footwear that is easy to slip on and off. Flip-flops, perhaps?”

Top spring break destinations could see an even greater increase in airport traffic, the TSA noted. Orlando could see 13 percent more travelers this year, along with other airports in Florida.