Those taking flight over the holidays are being told to prepare for longer lineups and busier terminals at the London International Airport.
While some people have already set off on their Christmas break, this weekend is expected to be the busiest travel time of the year with nearly all flights operating at 100 per cent or near 100 per cent capacity.
"For London, because we are small and a little easier to get through, we recommend people get to the airport this time of year an hour and a half to two hours prior to their flight. That gives you lots of time to check-in, get through security, and maybe even have a cup of coffee," said Mike Seabrook, president and CEO of the London International Airport.
Travellers flying out of larger airports, such as Toronto's Pearson International, should arrive even earlier in order to make it through security screening, Seabrook recommends.
To save time, travellers should check-in online, screenshot important travel information on their phones, and download the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) app to familiarize themselves with what can and can't be brought on board.
"If you've got presents, don't wrap them yet," cautions Seabrook. "Wrap them when you get to your destination just in case they have to be opened up from a security perspective to see what they are... If you have a gift that is fragile and not that big you'll want to bring it on the plane in your carry on. If it is large and bulky then put it in your checked bag."
Seabrook also noted one of the most important items a traveller can pack this time of year is their patience.
"We find at holiday seasons, whether it be Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter, people who are travelling are in a good mood. But it is stressful, particularly if there are delays or weather interruptions," said Seabrook. "So just get your mindset that you will get to your destination, there might be a couple of hiccups along the way, but overall it is going to be a good experience. Patience does help this time of year."
The holiday travel rush comes just days after the federal government's second phase of Air Passenger Protection Regulations came into effect. The second wave of air passenger rights centres around compensation for delays and cancellations and the assignment of seats for children under 14.
The first phase, which focused on tarmac delays, overbooking, and lost baggage, came into effect July 15.
