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An approximate 4.1 million people are expected to travel by plane over this upcoming holiday weekend. While airlines have been restoring some flights that where cut last September, the total number is still down by approximately 12 percent. At the same time, there will be fewer airline personnel to assist you at the check-in counters. The airlines laid off more than 80,000 representatives in various positions in September, of which only a small percentage have been called back to service.

All in all, the airports are expected to be very congested and planes are expected to be full. To avoid the hassles, the best advice during this heavy travel period is to arrive at the airport at least two hours early. Some airlines are boasting they can get you through check-in and security in less time, but that advice is based upon normal everyday travel, not increased holiday travel. Please also keep in mind that many airlines no longer provide meal service for flights less than 4 hours in duration. Patience will be a key factor when going through the parking, check-in, security screening and boarding process.

In observance of the Memorial Day holiday, GTM will be closed Monday, May 27, 2002.