MSP expects nearly 20% uptick in activity over MEA break

Impact of government shutdown on MEA travelImpact of government shutdown on MEA travel

As many Minnesotans get ready for a long weekend, officials at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) are preparing for a big increase in activity.

The Minnesota Educators Academy (MEA) break starts on Thursday, giving families a four-day weekend from Oct. 16-19 that many use for a getaway.

At MSP, passenger volumes are expected to increase by 19% compared to average fall activity levels, the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which operates MSP, says.

That increase, coupled with the ongoing federal government shutdown, could create a perfect storm for big-time delays. However, so far, operations at MSP are running smoothly.

“We’re grateful for the thousands of federal workers who are continuing to support air transportation at MSP and across the country during the government shutdown,” said Brian Ryks, the MAC’s CEO. “While there have been minimal impacts so far at MSP, passengers may experience delays and longer wait times wherever they fly in the days ahead.”

RELATED: A week ahead of MEA break, government shutdown starting to stress airports

MSP and the MAC hope that increased staffing levels will reduce customer wait times, but even with federal partners working to maintain normal security and air traffic control staffing levels, delays are always possible.

Busiest travel days

Thursday is expected to be the busiest travel day during MEA break, with more than 52,000 people forecast to go through security checkpoints, according to the MAC.

Officials anticipate Wednesday will be the second-busiest travel day with over 50,000 travelers passing through security.

Sunday is expected to have over 48,000 people going through checkpoints, making it the third-busiest travel day of the break.

New FLEX Lane

MSP has opened its new FLEX Lane at Terminal 1 just in time for MEA break.

The space is on the left side of the Terminal 1 departures drive, across from the primary drop-off curb.

Airport officials say the goal is to create more space for drop-offs and pick-ups, especially at the busiest terminal — more than 80% of MSP passengers come in and out of Terminal 1, the MAC says.

Terminal 2 already had an alternative drop-off and pick-up spot, the Terminal 2 Express Lane, which opened in 2024.

To help ease congestion, the MAC urges drivers to wait at the free cellphone lots on Post Road until passengers are curbside and ready to be picked up.

Travel tips

Travelers are encouraged to get to the airport at least two hours ahead of scheduled departure for domestic flights and three hours prior to an international flight.

Passengers can reserve spots in the security line with MSP Reserve.

Parking can also be pre-booked at least 12 hours before scheduled arrival time.

Anyone flying out of Terminal 1 should check the checkpoint wait-time boards upon arrival to find the shortest lines — the MAC says the north checkpoint typically has shorter wait times.

Finally, travelers are urged to review security screening information before getting to the airport to help speed up the process.
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