MSP Spring Break Travel Building Through March, Early April

Passenger volumes are continuing to grow through this year’s extended spring break travel season at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). Passenger activity is expected to peak during the weeks of March 24 and 31 and remain high into the first half of April.

So far in March, passenger volumes through TSA checkpoints are up approximately 10% compared to 2023. Demand during peak periods is expected to reach levels MSP hasn’t seen since spring 2019 — the same year the airport set an all-time record in passenger activity totaling 39.5 million passengers.

“Activity has been strong so far this month,” said Brian Ryks, CEO of the Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC), which owns and operates MSP. “We know it will continue to build as spring break begins for more school districts in the next weeks allowing for more Minnesotans and families to travel. We are prepared for even busier days ahead as we work with our airlines and the Transportation Security Administration to help passengers get off to a great start on their travel journeys.”   

Some of the busiest spring break travel days ahead will be Thursday, March 21, and Friday, March 22 – with nearly 48,000 passengers expected to clear MSP checkpoints on each of those days. Airline operations will peak on Thursday, April 4, with 449 departures from MSP. 

Travelers should plan ahead for their spring break flights from MSP. Parking is in high demand now. With online reservations, travelers can prebook their parking to guarantee a spot and capture the lowest daily rates. Bookings must be made at least 12 hours before scheduled arrival time.

Travelers in Terminal 1 should look for the shortest wait time at checkpoint boards at both ends of the ticketing lobby.  Passengers can access all gates from either checkpoint, but the North Checkpoint often has shorter wait times.

Terminal 2 passengers can reserve a spot in the security line for free through MSP Reserve. Appointments are available 3:45 a.m. to 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Availability is limited. 

Roadways will be congested at peak times as well. To reduce traffic at curbside pickup areas, drivers are encouraged to use MSP’s cell phone lots on Post Road. Capacity was recently expanded to 140 spaces. These are free waiting areas for drivers who are encouraged to stay parked until their arriving party contacts them by phone to pick them up at either terminal.

Travelers should review the latest TSA security screening information and tips including identification requirements and regulated items for carry-on and checked baggage.