HUNTSVILLE — Holiday travelers flying out of Huntsville International Airport may find more seats available this season, even as nationwide air travel is expected to dip slightly.
Available flights at HSV are up 8% compared to 2024, according to airport officials, while the Transportation Security Administration is projecting 1.5% fewer flyers nationally than last year. TSA expects to screen about 43.3 million travelers over the next two weeks, with the holiday travel period running from last Friday through Jan. 4.
Mary Swanstrom, public relations manager at Huntsville International Airport, said the local increase is largely driven by airlines responding to demand in North Alabama.
“The airlines are recognizing there is a real need in this area to add more flights and more seats,” Swanstrom said. “Allegiant recently reestablished service from Huntsville with twice weekly flights to Fort Lauderdale, and Breeze added daily service to Orlando for the winter holidays.
“Sometimes it is not new destinations, but more frequency of routes people are already using.”
While HSV is classified as a small airport, notably the Best Small Airport, Swanstrom said that designation often works in travelers’ favor.
“We really encourage folks to fly from a smaller airport,” she said. “If you are not a fan of long lines, long walks, or arriving three or four hours early, Huntsville offers a much more relaxed experience. Parking is close, security lines are short, and the overall congestion you see at larger airports just is not here.”
The terminal is decorated for the holidays, though travelers may notice construction projects within the concourse. Airport officials say any impacts will be minimal, with dust walls and signs clearly directing passengers to gates and amenities.
With crowds expected nationwide, TSA and airport officials stress preparation as the key to smoother travel. Swanstrom said the most important tip this season is making sure travelers have proper identification before arriving at the checkpoint.
“Have your STAR ID or another Real ID-compliant document ready,” she said. “In Alabama, that means the gold star on your driver’s license. If you do not have that, bring a valid passport or another acceptable form of ID.
“If you show up without compliant identification, you will be delayed.”
Tara Corse, TSA federal security director for Alabama and Mississippi, echoed that advice, urging travelers to organize documents, separate electronics, and leave gifts unwrapped to avoid delays at security.
Swanstrom also recommends arriving at the airport early, even when flying from a smaller facility.
“We encourage everyone to arrive 90 minutes to two hours prior to departure,” she said. “That gives you plenty of time to park, check a bag if needed, get through security, and relax before your flight.”
She added that downloading an airline’s mobile app and monitoring flight information can help travelers stay ahead of any changes during the busy holiday period.
“Staying informed before you leave for the airport can really prevent unpleasant surprises,” Swanstrom said.
Despite the holiday rush, Swanstrom said HSV’s size and layout help make the experience more manageable for travelers starting their vacation.
“If you are taking precious vacation days,” she said, “why not start them in the most enjoyable and leisurely atmosphere you can.”
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our email newsletter to have all our smart stories delivered to your inbox.
