Phoenix, Arizona – A new security checkpoint has opened in Terminal 2 at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, just in time for July 4^th holiday travel. Passengers will immediately notice the difference when they walk into the lobby of Terminal 2. The new six-lane checkpoint moves the security lines to the west side of the lobby, creating much more room in the center for visitors who are meeting arriving passengers. The security waiting area is also more efficiently designed so that lines will no longer extend into ticketing and baggage claim. This new checkpoint is part of an overall renovation of Terminal 2, Sky Harbor’s oldest terminal. New shops and restaurants will be opening throughout the terminal over the next year.

The summer travel season has been busy at Phoenix Sky Harbor, with the airport setting new passenger records every month. More than 150,000 people are expected to travel through the Airport each day this holiday weekend with Friday, June 30 being the busiest day.

Economy parking is expected to be very busy this weekend, with the lots opening and closing periodically. Sky Harbor encourages anyone planning to use economy parking to call the parking hotline before leaving home to check the current status at 602-273-4545. Employees staffing that parking hotline provide up-to-the-minute information and directions to the nearest available economy parking. Assistance Call Boxes are available in the parking areas to help passengers find lost vehicles. Look for the blue light and push the “info” button for vehicle assistance or the “emergency” button for police or fire assistance.

Additional travel tips for the holidays:

Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs to allow time if parking and to clear security.

Before leaving home, check with the airline on possible flight delays and baggage weight limits.

Do not bring lighters of any kind on board an aircraft. Certain lighters may be packed in checked baggage. More information at www.tsa.gov

Rather than circling the terminals when picking up passengers, wait in the free Stage & Go lot on the west side of the airport. Electronic flight display monitors show arriving flights and the estimated time that passengers will be available on the curb for pick up.

The TSA prohibits all types of fireworks in checked and carry-on luggage. For more tips on getting through security, visit tsa.gov.