ORLANDO, Fla. – Holiday travel continued to slow things down at Orlando International Airport on Tuesday as travelers made their way home following Christmas.
Several flights experienced delays throughout the day as airlines worked to recover from a busy holiday travel period. Despite the disruptions, many passengers remained in good spirits, saying they expected the crowds and planned accordingly.
A steady stream of travelers moved through the terminals as TSA lines stretched longer than usual. Airport officials said security wait times averaged around 30 minutes, longer than normal but manageable for most passengers.
“I wasn’t prepared for it,” said William Maxwell, who was traveling back home to Indiana. “But at the same time, I really don’t see a problem with it. As long as I get from point A to point B within the day, it doesn’t matter to me.”
Officials at Orlando International Airport encouraged travelers to arrive early, a message many passengers appeared to take to heart.
Chad and Hayleigh Sherman arrived at the airport hours ahead of their flight, traveling with their other family members.
“We’re here very early today, four hours,” the daughter said.
When asked about the early arrival, her parents laughed and joked about whose idea it was, ultimately agreeing the extra time was worth it.
“It’s not small, but it’s good though, because you’re prepared,” one of them said.
Even with flight delays and longer security lines, many travelers said a little extra time at the airport was a small price to pay after the holidays.
Airport officials continue to urge passengers flying later today to check their flight status frequently and allow plenty of extra time before departure.
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