Phoenix Airport and TSA Prep for Basketball Championship Travel Surge

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

As the College Basketball Championship games draw near, Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport and the TSA eagerly await the influx of travelers from all corners of the country. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable customer experience during this festive period, they offer the following essential travel tips:

Key Tips for Traveling to Phoenix:

1. Advance Car Rental Reservation: If you plan on renting a car, it’s advisable to make your reservation ahead of time. Due to the expected surge in car rentals around the College Basketball Championship, walk-up customers may face limited vehicle availability.

2. Getting to Downtown Phoenix: Planning to visit Downtown Phoenix? You can easily reach it via the complimentary PHX Sky Train® that connects all airport terminals to the Valley Metro Light Rail system. Once you arrive at the PHX Sky Train® station, buy your pass from the Valley Metro fare vending machine. Hop on the westbound Valley Metro Rail to access popular spots like the Phoenix Convention Center, Footprint Center, and Chase Field. For Hance Park, you can use either the Roosevelt/Central Ave. or McDowell/Central Ave. stations. For more information about the Valley Metro Rail, check out Valley Metro’s website.

3. Alternative Pick-up Points: Travelers staying with family or friends can save time and avoid traffic by getting picked up at the 24th Street or 44th Street PHX Sky Train® Stations. These stations provide a convenient alternative to driving directly into the airport. Learn more at Sky Harbor’s Ground Transportation page.

Tips for Departing Passengers, Particularly on Sunday, April 7, and Tuesday, April 9:

5-4-3-2-1 Rule: Plan your departure timeline carefully. Five hours before departure, check out of your hotel; four hours before, return your rental car; three hours before, check in at the Ticket Counter; two hours before, line up at the TSA Security Checkpoint; and one hour before, be at your gate.

Responsible Boarding: Avoid excessive alcohol consumption before boarding, as intoxicated passengers may be denied boarding. Unruly behavior at the checkpoint or during the flight can result in penalties and potential legal action.

Carry-On Essentials: Keep your NCAA Final Four program in your carry-on bag. Visit TSA.gov for guidance on carry-on and checked items, especially for essential medications.

Flight Updates and Amenities: Stay informed about your flight status on skyharbor.com. The website also provides details about nearby shops and restaurants. Shops within and outside security areas will feature tournament merchandise.

Security Checkpoint Convenience: Consider using the PHX RESERVE program to schedule your TSA Security Checkpoint time in advance, reducing wait times. Additionally, travelers with hidden disabilities can request a Compassion Cacti™ Lanyard or a Navigator Support Guide for assistance.

Volunteer Support: Seek assistance from friendly volunteer Navigators in purple uniforms stationed throughout the airport. These volunteers, along with NCAA volunteers, can answer questions about local events and provide support to customers.

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