Syracuse Airport: Efficient Ticket Checking Process Explained

Syracuse Hancock International Airport is Central New York’s gateway to the world, offering nonstop service to 29 destinations. The airport has a range of facilities and services to assist passengers with their travel plans, including step-by-step directions for a seamless journey. For passengers checking in at Syracuse Airport, the process begins on the first level of the airport, where all airline and baggage check-in counters are located. After entering through the main entrance, passengers will find themselves in the grand hall, with various airlines' counters within a short distance to the right and left. Once check-in is complete, passengers return to the grand hall and proceed to the security checkpoint on the second level via escalators. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends that travellers arrive at least 2 hours before their scheduled departure time and be inside the airport terminal 90 minutes prior to their flight to ensure a smooth security screening process.

Check-in and security wait times

Firstly, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for check-in, baggage drop-off, and security screening. The TSA also suggests being inside the airport terminal at least 90 minutes ahead of the flight, especially during busy travel periods, such as holidays and summer.

Upon entering through the main entrance (Door 3), passengers will find themselves in the grand hall, with airline counters for check-in located on the first level. The farthest distance from the main entrance to any check-in counter is less than 353 feet. After completing check-in, passengers should promptly proceed to the security checkpoint, which is located on the second level.

The security checkpoint at Syracuse Airport is equipped with advanced technology, including computed tomography (CT) scanners that provide 3D imaging. This enhances security and convenience, allowing passengers to keep their laptops and electronic devices in their carry-on bags. To facilitate the security screening process, passengers should be aware of prohibited items and pack their carry-on bags accordingly. Uncertainty about permissible items can be clarified using the myTSA app or by contacting the TSA directly.

Passengers with disabilities or medical conditions can receive assistance by calling the TSA Cares helpline at least 72 hours before their flight. Additionally, Syracuse Airport provides uniformed security staff throughout the airport property, and emergency services can be reached by calling 911.

Baggage claim areas

Syracuse Hancock International Airport has two baggage claim areas, located on the first floor of Terminal A and Terminal B. If you are exiting from Terminal A, the taxi lineup area is no further than 84 feet away to your left. If you are exiting from Terminal B, the taxi lineup area is to your right and no further than 134 feet away.

The airport has two concourses, North-B and South-A, with eateries and shops. After security checkpoints close for the night, passengers are restricted to the landside areas and must go through security again the next day when the checkpoints reopen. The TSA security checkpoint is open from 4:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Airline check-in and baggage drop-off hours vary according to the flight schedule, so check with your airline.

If you are arriving at Syracuse Airport from another airport, check your flight's arrival status to know which baggage carousel your flight has been assigned to. The airport provides free Wi-Fi, and there are outlets for charging mobile devices in various spots around the terminal.

What to do at the airport

When you arrive at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, the first thing you should do is check in at the designated counter for your airline. If you haven't checked in online already, you can do this at a self-service kiosk or by speaking to an airline representative. Check-in usually closes 40 minutes to one hour before your flight departs, so be sure to arrive at the airport with plenty of time to spare. The TSA recommends that travellers are inside the Syracuse airport terminal at least 90 minutes before their scheduled flight.

Once you've checked in, you'll receive a boarding pass, which you'll need to keep safe and present to airport security staff when you head through to departures. Before you go through security, you may want to download a handy app such as MiFlight, which provides real-time information on checkpoint waiting times so that you can bypass the worst security checkpoints. You can also use the myTSA app to find out what you can and can't bring in your carry-on luggage. Remember to keep your liquids and electronics easily accessible, and be aware that some airlines have strict size limits for carry-on bags.

After you've passed through security, you'll want to find your boarding gate. This will be printed on your boarding pass, but if you checked in online, you'll need to consult the informational monitors at the airport. Keep an eye on the informational boards in case of any changes to the gate number. It's a good idea to locate your gate first, and then you can go and grab a bite to eat or do some shopping. It's expensive to buy food at the airport, and even more so on board the plane, so it's worth eating before you get on the plane if you think you'll need a snack later. You can also use this time to go to the bathroom, refill your water bottle, or charge your devices.

When you hear your group being called, get in the correct boarding lane and proceed down the jet bridge. The gate agent will scan your boarding pass, and then you can find your seat and stow your luggage.

Transport to and from the airport

Syracuse Hancock International Airport is located just 8 miles from downtown Syracuse, New York. There are several transport options for getting to and from the airport.

One option is to take a bus. The Centro bus service operates between Wolf St & 1st North St station and Air Cargo Rd & Employee Parking Lot station every three hours, from Monday to Saturday. The journey takes around 22 minutes and costs $1-$2. This is the cheapest way to get to and from the airport.

You can also take a taxi. A taxi from the William F. Walsh Regional Transportation Center to the airport takes around 8 minutes and costs $35-$45.

For those looking for a more luxurious option, Jayride offers pre-bookable private car transfers to and from the airport. This service allows you to compare prices and services across different vehicle types.

Another option is to use a ride-share service like OurBus, which offers service to and from the airport according to its schedule.

Finally, if you prefer to drive yourself, there are several rental car companies available at the airport.

Finding cheap flights to Syracuse

If you're looking for cheap flights to Syracuse, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to be flexible with your travel dates, arrival and departure airports, times, and any stopovers on your route. Cheap airfares also depend on the airline, so be sure to compare prices from different carriers.

When searching for flights, consider using a platform like Expedia or KAYAK, which allow you to filter your search results based on various factors such as flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times. You can also use the "Flexible Dates" calendar on Expedia to compare prices on surrounding dates and pick the cheapest days to fly. Remember that non-stop flights are usually more expensive, so consider routes with connections if you're looking for a cheaper option.

Booking in advance is generally recommended, as tickets tend to get more expensive closer to the departure date. According to Expedia, the cheapest tickets are usually found 21 to 45 days before departure, and Sundays are typically the best day of the week to book. Additionally, consider bundling your airfare and hotel, as this can often result in significant savings.

If you're looking for a specific month to fly, September is the cheapest month to fly from Syracuse, while March, April, and May are considered the high season. Morning departures also tend to be cheaper than evening flights.

Keep in mind that Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is served by several airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Breeze Airways, Frontier, United Airlines, and Allegiant Air. New York is the most popular departure point for flights to Syracuse, with other popular routes including Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

By following these tips and staying flexible, you'll be well on your way to finding cheap flights to Syracuse!

Frequently asked questions