Pocatello Airport discusses security, tips during holidays

Pocatello Airport Manager David Allen said the airport is seeing more folks flying out than they have ever seen before.

“The flights are full,” Allen said. “Every single flights. There were still a few more seats available last year, but the percentage that were on there was not as great.”

Allen also said it’s important to be aware of security protocol in all airports, especially following the major issue at the Atlanta, Georgia, airport on Tuesday. (Click here for that story: bit.ly/1CENpEx).

“No matter where it is, even a small place like Pocatello, it is a point of entry into the system,” Allen said. “So, we have to take that very seriously and we do.”

Allen said if the airport were to ever change their security or beef it up, they wouldn’t discuss it anyway.

“If there’s a perceived threat I might not even be telling you,” he said. “We just might be doing it.”

He said for those simply wanting to get from point A to point B, there are a few tips to make that trip as smooth as possible.

First, Allen said to arrive at the airport at least an hour in advance. He said with more travelers, it’s likely to take longer to get people processed through to their flights.

Second, Allen said to make sure to check the do’s and don’t’s on the Transportation Security Administration website (found here: 1.usa.gov/1t9s4Dc), especially when it comes to liquids and foods in your carry-on bag.

Finally, Allen said your present in your bag probably isn’t for the TSA agent, but they may have to open it up to make sure everything checks out. So instead of spending the time wrapping presents before your flight, it’s best to wrap them once you get to your destination.