Ruth Haines
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is an economic engine for Central Texas, serving approximately 20 million passengers a year and offering shopping and dining from over 40 local brands. The airport is currently undergoing a multi-year expansion and development program, which includes a new air cargo facility, to meet the demands of increased passenger and airline activity. In this response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the airport has implemented several health and safety measures, including mandatory face coverings, temperature screening, and mobile boarding passes.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Airport Name | Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) |
| Ownership | City of Austin |
| Operation | Department of Aviation |
| Number of Passengers | 20 million per year |
| Number of Brands | Over 40 |
| Live Music Stages | 8 |
| Number of Airlines | Over 15 |
| Safety Measures | Face coverings, temperature screening, social distancing, hand washing, etc. |
| Security Measures | TSA screening, no parking in front of the terminal, etc. |
| Construction | Ongoing expansion and development |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
- The airport is taking precautions to ensure the health and safety of passengers
- TSA screening procedures are in place for all passengers, including children
- The airport is committed to the safety of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders
- Construction activities are taking place as part of the airport improvement program
- The Department of Aviation is working to ensure a safe and comfortable experience
The airport is taking precautions to ensure the health and safety of passengers
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is committed to ensuring the safety of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders. The airport has outlined several measures to maintain the health and safety of its patrons and staff. These measures are in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and are designed to create a safe and comfortable environment for all.
Passengers are encouraged to take certain precautions when travelling through AUS. Face coverings are mandatory, and passengers are encouraged to bring their own, although a limited number are available for purchase at various locations throughout the airport. Mobile boarding passes are also encouraged, and passengers are advised to check in from home whenever possible to reduce touchpoints. Those picking up or dropping off passengers are requested to wait in the designated Cell Phone Lot and remain in their vehicles unless assisting minors, passengers with disabilities, or others requiring assistance.
The airport itself has implemented several measures to ensure the safety of all individuals within its facilities. The Department of Aviation has taken proactive steps to manage crowds and maintain social distancing, including providing additional staff in the terminal to assist with wayfinding and line management. The airport is also prepared to adjust its safety measures if and when necessary and encourages travellers to follow them on Twitter and check their website regularly for updates.
Furthermore, AUS has embarked on its largest airport improvement program, investing approximately $4 billion in passenger amenities, expanded TSA security screening, new airline gates, and other improvements to enhance the safety and comfort of travellers. The airport is also constructing a new air cargo facility, which will benefit the region's manufacturing, tech, and business hubs, and is working on developing a new jet fuel storage facility to meet the airport's long-term fuelling needs.
The airport also offers travel tips to help passengers prepare for their journey, such as recommending that travellers arrive at least 2.5 hours before their departure time for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights. Passengers are also advised to stay informed about potential flight delays by checking with their airline and monitoring weather conditions at their destination.
Newark Airport: A Traveler's Worst Nightmare
You may want to see also
Explore related products
TSA screening procedures are in place for all passengers, including children
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has implemented screening procedures for all passengers, including children, to ensure safety at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas. These procedures are part of TSA's layered approach to security, aiming to prevent prohibited items and other threats from entering the airport's sterile areas.
TSA officers guide passengers through the screening process, which involves checking carry-on baggage and personal electronic devices. Passengers are advised to organise their bags and separate certain items, such as electronics, foods, powders, and materials that could clutter the bag and obstruct X-ray images. TSA screens approximately 3.3 million carry-on bags and 1.3 million checked bags daily for explosives and other dangerous items.
Children 12 and under are subject to modified screening procedures to reduce the likelihood of a pat-down. They can keep their shoes, light jackets, and headwear on during screening. If they alarm the metal detector, children are allowed multiple passes and alternative procedures to reduce the need for a pat-down. TSA officers will consult with parents or guardians about the child's screening, and children will not be separated from their parent or guardian during this process.
Additionally, TSA makes accommodations for passengers with disabilities, medical conditions, or special circumstances. Passengers can contact TSA Cares for assistance and information before arriving at the airport. TSA also provides a smartphone application, GoodMaps, for passengers with accessibility needs, offering wayfinding assistance through haptics, visuals, and textual prompts.
A Guide to Mastering Airport Transfers Smoothly
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The airport is committed to the safety of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is committed to the safety of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders. The airport has implemented several measures to ensure the well-being of everyone at the facility.
One of the critical aspects of safety at AUS is the security screening process. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for screening all individuals, regardless of age, before they enter the airport. This comprehensive screening helps identify potential hazards and ensure the safety of all passengers and staff. The airport also offers a family viewing area, allowing children to observe the airport operations, including plane take-offs, and familiarise themselves with security procedures.
To enhance safety and security, AUS has introduced the Journey With AUS airport improvement program. This initiative aims to modernise the airport and meet the increasing demands of rising passenger numbers. The program includes expansion plans, new infrastructure, and improved facilities, such as additional airline gates and parking options. These developments will not only enhance safety but also improve the overall travel experience for passengers.
The airport also prioritises health and safety, especially in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. AUS encourages passengers to follow guidelines from the CDC and public health authorities, including the use of face coverings and maintaining physical distance. The airport provides mobile boarding passes and encourages checking in from home to minimise touchpoints. Additionally, the airport has implemented temperature screening before boarding for certain airlines.
Furthermore, AUS provides a safe and secure environment for travellers by addressing aviation safety concerns and perceived hazards. The airport encourages individuals to report any unsafe behaviour or conditions through their Safety Reporting Form, which is promptly investigated. The airport also offers a Lost and Found service to assist travellers in reuniting with their lost items, demonstrating their commitment to passenger safety and satisfaction.
Overall, the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders through proactive measures, security protocols, health guidelines, and responsive reporting systems. These comprehensive efforts contribute to a secure and positive travel experience for all.
Airports and Train Stations: Seamless Travel Connections
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Construction activities are taking place as part of the airport improvement program
The Journey with AUS program includes several projects aimed at enhancing the airport's infrastructure and capacity. One such project is the Utility Infrastructure Campus-Wide (UICW) project, which involves expanding and enhancing utilities to meet the airport's growing demands. This includes improvements to electrical systems, storm drainage, water quality ponds, detention ponds, reclaimed water, and information technology/telecommunications duct banks. The project is currently in the design phase, with construction estimated to start as early as late 2025.
Another project under the Journey with AUS program is the construction of a surface parking lot to support the airport's long-term passenger growth. This project will be completed in three phases, with the first phase, Economy Lot H, opening in late 2024. The final lot will include approximately 1,400 spaces and feature revenue control, lighting, line marking, drainage improvements, and new shuttle bus shelters. The second and third phases are currently in the design phase.
Additionally, the program includes the construction of two miles of new parallel taxiways, several smaller connector taxiways, and two bridges under the taxiways to improve connectivity for airfield support services. The project also encompasses improvements to airfield lighting, signage, and the creation of a new taxi route for low-visibility conditions. It is estimated to be completed by 2027.
The Journey with AUS program also involves the design and construction of a new Central Utility Plant (CUP) and chilled water thermal energy storage (TES) to reliably cool and heat the airport as it expands. This project reflects the airport's commitment to sustainability and ensuring a comfortable environment for travelers.
Closest Airports to Coudersport, PA: A Traveler's Guide
You may want to see also
Explore related products
The Department of Aviation is working to ensure a safe and comfortable experience
The Department of Aviation is committed to ensuring the safety and comfort of all passengers, employees, and stakeholders at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). To achieve this, the department has implemented several measures and initiatives.
One of their key focuses is on improving the airport's infrastructure and facilities. The Journey with AUS expansion and development program is a multi-year, $4 billion initiative that aims to enhance the airport experience for travellers and business partners. This includes investing in passenger amenities, expanding parking options, improving TSA security screening, and adding new airline gates. These improvements will not only make the airport more convenient and efficient but also contribute to the safety and comfort of all who utilise the airport.
Additionally, the Department of Aviation has been proactive in addressing the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. They have taken precautions to ensure the health and safety of passengers, such as recommending face coverings, providing mobile boarding passes, and encouraging travellers to check-in from home to limit touchpoints. The department has also advised travellers to follow guidelines from the CDC and public health authorities when making travel decisions.
To manage the increase in passenger volume, the department has introduced the Airport Ambassador Program. This volunteer organisation aims to provide exceptional customer service to passengers and visitors, ensuring they have a safe and comfortable experience. During peak travel seasons, additional Department of Aviation staff are deployed to offer face-to-face support with wayfinding, passenger processing, and crowd control.
Furthermore, the department is committed to the continuous improvement and modernisation of the airport. They have implemented the Journey with AUS airport improvement program, which includes construction activities to meet the needs of growing passenger and airline activity. This involves projects like the new air cargo facility, which will benefit the region's manufacturing, tech, and business hubs, and the development of a new jet fuel storage facility to meet the airport's long-term fuelling needs.
The Department of Aviation's efforts to ensure a safe and comfortable experience at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport are comprehensive and ongoing. Through infrastructure development, health and safety initiatives, and customer service enhancements, they strive to create a positive and secure environment for all who pass through AUS.
Princess Cruises: Airport Transfers and Travel Options
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is committed to the safety of its passengers, employees, and stakeholders. The airport has a Lost and Found department to help travelers with lost items and a Safety Reporting Form to report any safety concerns, hazards, or unsafe behaviors.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is required to screen everyone entering the airport, including children. During peak travel seasons, the Department of Aviation increases staff in the terminal to provide support with wayfinding, passenger processing, and crowd control. The airport also has a Department Operations Center (DOC) to coordinate swift responses to any incidents.
Travelers are encouraged to arrive early during busy travel seasons and plan ahead by checking real-time traffic updates and flight statuses. When making travel decisions, passengers should refer to guidance from the CDC, public health authorities, and their destinations. Face coverings are mandatory, and social distancing, frequent handwashing, and covering coughs and sneezes are recommended.
Curbside in front of the Barbara Jordan Terminal is for active loading and unloading only, and violators will be fined. Those picking up or dropping off passengers should wait in the designated Cell Phone Lot and stay in their vehicles unless assisting unaccompanied minors, passengers with disabilities, or others needing assistance.
