FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: November 18, 2020
Contact: Melissa Stepovich, 907-474-2522
Holiday Travel Reminders
It’s been said before, but worth repeating! As we arrive closer to the holidays and travel, Fairbanks International Airport (FAI) would like to share both the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and Covid-19 travel guidelines.
TSA Do’s and Don’ts of Holiday Travel:
Hold off wrapping your gifts until you reach your destination. Any item that requires additional inspection, such as larger electronics, could require that the item be unwrapped.
Whether its bringing a pie to dinner or taking home leftovers, please be aware that food items must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Your favorite bottle(s) of wine, beer, or spirits must be packed in your checked bags for your flight. You may pack as many alcoholic beverages that you can fit in your suitcase as long as they contain less than 24% alcohol.
TSA Pre✓® allows eligible travelers to receive expedited screening so there is no need to remove shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets, apply now and be ready for your next holiday trip!
Travelers with disabilities, medical conditions and other special circumstances may call the TSA Cares helpline toll free at 855-787-2227 with any questions about screening policies, procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint.
Follow the rules, COVID-19 guidelines:
Travelers should familiarize themselves with their destination's state and local guidelines.
If there’s a mask mandate, wear your mask.
If social distancing is required, stay at least six feet from others.
Some destinations may require a travel declaration. All travelers arriving in Alaska must complete one and upload it to the online Travel Portal at covid19.alaska.gov/travelers
Pretravel testing is a good idea and may be required. Non-residents traveling to Alaska must complete a pretravel test within 72 hour of departure or test upon arrival in Alaska for $250.
Safety in route:
Carry several masks with you in case of loss or need to replace.
Review the rules that are specific to your airline. Keep in mind that you may have booked with one airline but are flying on one of their travel partners and they may have different rules.
Bring sanitizing wipes/spray to clean seating and other surfaces.
Bring hand sanitizer with you. The TSA is allowing up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer in your carry-on. The 3-1-1 rule still applies for all other liquids, gels and pastes:
- Each container must be 3.4 ounces or less.
- All containers must be in a clear, one-quart size bag.
- Only one quart-size bag per passenger
Consider buying travel insurance. If you contract COVID-19 while traveling, you may not be able to return home until you have recovered, or you may need cancel your trip before you leave.
Check your destination’s local news leading up to your travel date for changes in state and local guidelines.
Plan for contingencies. The spread of the virus could impact:
Available lodging
Dining options
Travel rules
For more information, visit www.TSA.gov before you travel. For information about returning to Alaska, visit www.AlaskaSafeTravels.com.
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About Fairbanks International Airport
Fairbanks International Airport is the gateway to Alaska’s interior and Denali National Park. It’s one half of the Alaska International Airport System and serves more than a million passengers annually. Equipped to handle any size and type of aircraft, anytime, with state-of-the-art landing systems and terminal facilities. Accounts for 1 in 20 jobs for a total of 1,900 jobs in Fairbanks.
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