This article was updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.
With Thanksgiving just a week away, Jacksonville International Airport is bracing for one of its busiest travel periods of the year — and that means crowded terminals and even tighter parking than usual.
The Jacksonville Aviation Authority is advising travelers to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure time to allow enough time “to find parking, check bags and navigate through security.”
Wednesday, Sunday and Monday are expected to be the peak travel days, when airport officials anticipate tens of thousands of passengers moving through the terminal.
What’s parking like at Jacksonville International Airport?
Parking is nearly back to normal at JAX this holiday season after the airport repairs and cleanup following a parking garage fire earlier this year.
The airport’s hourly parking garage is about 80% open now, officials said, while construction also continues on a third parking garage to expand future capacity.
Only the areas affected by the fire on the third and fourth floors of the south end of the garage are still closed.
To offset the slightly reduced number of on-site spaces, Economy Lot 3 is open and operating to help accommodate travelers. Even so, officials say on-site parking is likely to reach full capacity at some point during the holiday period.
Should I plan for delays at the airport?
Yes — both on the ground and in the air.
JAA spokesperson Greg Willis said that travelers should “arrive early and plan ahead,” adding that anyone flying later in the day may want to have someone drop them off or use a ride-share service instead of trying to park on-site.
Traffic leading into the airport on Airport Road is expected to back up on peak days, especially during the morning rush and early evening departures.
How much does it cost to park at Jacksonville International Airport?
Here are the current JAX parking rates:
Valet parking is also available. Call 904-741-3900 for current rates and availability.
Where can I park off-site near Jacksonville International Airport?
Several off-airport parking businesses operate along Airport Road, offering daily and weekly rates that may be lower than on-site parking. Many provide shuttle service to the terminal every 10 to 15 minutes.
Travelers can also use ride-share drop-offs or taxis to reach the terminal if staying nearby.
Where can I wait to pick someone up from the airport?
A complimentary cellphone lot is available for those picking up arriving passengers. It’s located next to the Jacksonville Aviation Authority administration building on Pecan Park Road, a short drive from the terminal entrance.
Drivers can wait there until their passenger calls or texts to confirm they’re ready for pickup.
What should travelers expect overall?
With one parking garage not available at full capacity and construction underway on another, the best strategy is to plan ahead and arrive early.
Check flyjacksonville.com, the airport’s Facebook page or signage along Airport Road for real-time parking updates before heading out.
A little extra preparation could make the difference between a smooth flight and a scramble for the last open space.
This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Holiday travel is right around the corner: Here’s what you need to know flying out of JAX
Reporting by Alexandria Mansfield, Jacksonville Florida Times-Union / Florida Times-Union
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
