Milwaukee Airport: Managing Busy Travel Hubs Efficiently

Milwaukee General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) is a busy airport, with security wait times fluctuating due to unforeseen circumstances. The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) advises passengers to arrive well ahead of their departure time and stay updated on potential delays. TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus services are available for expedited security screening, offering benefits like quicker processing and reduced stress. The airport also provides hourly parking to avoid congestion during pick-ups, with the first 30 minutes complimentary.

Security wait times

To ensure a smooth journey through the airport, it is recommended that travellers arrive well ahead of their departure time and stay in communication with their airline. Each airline has its own suggested and obligatory arrival times, so it is important to factor this into your travel plans.

There are also programmes and services that eligible travellers can take advantage of to expedite the security screening process. TSA PreCheck, for example, is available at Concourse C and Concourse D within MKE. Members of this programme can enjoy benefits such as not having to remove their shoes, light outerwear, and belts, and can keep their laptops and liquids in their carry-on bags during security checks. CLEAR Plus is another service that offers expedited security screening at MKE, allowing members to use dedicated CLEAR lanes to save time and reduce stress.

The TSA also provides data on airport security wait times through the My TSA application, which can be downloaded on mobile phones. This application allows travellers to check and post airport delays in real time, confirm what items are allowed through security, and access other helpful tips for travelling through TSA checkpoints.

TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus services

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) offers TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus services to help travellers expedite their security screening process. These services are designed to reduce wait times and make the airport experience more efficient and stress-free.

TSA PreCheck is a program that allows eligible travellers to undergo expedited security screening at participating airports, including Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. Members can enjoy benefits such as not having to remove their shoes, light outerwear, and belts, and they can keep their laptops and compliant liquids in their carry-on bags during security checks. TSA PreCheck is available at Concourse C and Concourse D within MKE, and travellers can enrol without an appointment at a CLEAR kiosk. The cost for a 5-year membership is $77.95, and members receive a Known Traveller Number to access TSA PreCheck lanes at airports across the country.

CLEAR Plus is a separate service that offers air travellers a faster and more streamlined security screening process at selected airports, including Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport. CLEAR Plus members can use dedicated CLEAR lanes to speed up their security screening, saving time and reducing potential delays. The CLEAR Plus membership can be purchased as a bundle with TSA PreCheck for $199.95. CLEAR Plus members also have access to exclusive services such as Ambassador Assist, which provides guidance throughout the airport.

The security wait times at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport can vary due to unforeseen circumstances, and travellers are encouraged to arrive well ahead of their departure time. The airport provides hourly parking to avoid congestion on the baggage claim roadway, with the first 30 minutes being free. Additionally, travellers can take advantage of off-airport parking options that offer lower costs.

By utilising TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus services, travellers can streamline their security screening process at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, making their overall airport experience more efficient and convenient. These services are particularly beneficial for frequent flyers and those seeking a quicker alternative to standard security checks.

Parking options

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport offers a range of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. The airport's parking options can be broadly categorized into on-site and off-site parking, with further subdivisions within each category.

On-Site Parking Options:

• Daily Parking Garage: This option is suitable for those who need parking for more than five hours or overnight. It is connected to the terminal by skywalks and has disabled-designated spaces available.
• Hourly Parking Garage: This is the best choice for parking less than five hours or dropping someone off at the terminal. The first 30 minutes are free, and it is located on the 3rd floor (RED area).
• Valet Parking: Valet parking is available at the airport but only by reservation. The rate is $28 per day, and vehicles can be dropped off in the left lane of the ticketing roadway.

Off-Site Parking Options:

• Surface Lot: This lot is located immediately south of the parking structure and is within walking distance of the terminal. It also has disabled-designated spaces available.
• Saver Lot: The Saver Lot is a convenient and inexpensive option located on Air Cargo Way, just minutes from the terminal. Free shuttle buses run every 10 minutes, 24 hours a day.
• Amtrak Station Parking: This off-site parking option is located on 6th Street, just south of Grange Avenue. It is a few minutes' drive from the airport terminals and costs $10 per 24-hour period.
• Off-Airport Parking Lots: There are also off-airport parking lots near Milwaukee Airport, such as those offered by Parkobility and On Air Parking, that provide long-term parking with shuttle services at affordable rates.

Shopping and dining

Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travellers to explore. The airport encourages travellers to arrive well ahead of their departure time, providing ample time to grab a bite, peruse the shops, or even relax with a coffee and free WiFi.

For dining, the airport has a Milwaukee County Parks beer garden, offering local craft brews and cocktails, as well as a full menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Chili's is also available, serving burgers, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers. Concordia Market provides travellers with an array of local specialities, including Press Waffles, pastries, and sandwiches with Nueske's meat, alongside coffee from Anodyne Coffee Roasting Co. and a range of grab-and-go options. Nonna Bartolotta's offers traditional Italian cuisine, including pasta, stone-fired pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and desserts like fresh gelato. Additionally, travellers can find Starbucks and Miller Brewhouse, among other dining choices.

Travellers seeking retail therapy have a diverse range of options, from local Milwaukee-themed merchandise to sports apparel and rare books. Miller – The Brewery Shop offers apparel and accessories for Molson Coors beer brands. No Boundaries specialises in outdoor gear, while the PGA Tour Shop provides golf enthusiasts with clothing, supplies, and unique gifts. Renaissance Books, located in the main terminal, boasts a large selection of used and rare books with a rotating inventory. For those seeking Milwaukee souvenirs, Brew City Brand offers a range of themed merchandise. Concourse C is home to additional shops, including Scoreboard, which offers sports apparel and memorabilia for the Badgers, Bucks, Brewers, and Packers.

Flight delays

Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport (MKE) is a busy airport, and like any airport, it experiences flight delays. These can be caused by unforeseen circumstances and changes in TSA staffing levels. Delays can also occur due to gate holds and taxi issues, as well as airborne delays for arriving flights.

To avoid unnecessary delays, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport well ahead of their departure time. The TSA recommends using tools like the My TSA application to check for delays and plan their journey. This app provides real-time delay information, allowing travellers to stay informed and make necessary adjustments to their arrival time at the airport.

Security wait times at MKE are based on a comprehensive analysis of past flight records and TSA staffing schedules. These estimates help travellers plan their arrival time at the airport. However, it's important to remember that these wait times are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.

Additionally, MKE offers services like TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus to expedite security screening for eligible travellers. TSA PreCheck is available at Concourse C and Concourse D, allowing members to keep their shoes, light outerwear, and belts on during screening. CLEAR Plus is also available at MKE, offering dedicated lanes to streamline the security process further.

By utilizing the tools provided by the TSA, staying informed about delays, and taking advantage of expedited security screening services, travellers can effectively manage their time and reduce potential delays at Milwaukee General Mitchell Airport.

Frequently asked questions