Summer travel reminder for international travellers

Travellers going on holiday overseas this summer are being reminded to leave plenty of time to do all the things they need to do in preparation for their journey.

“Summer is the busiest time of the year for Auckland Airport and forward planning makes all the difference to the travelling experience” says Auckland International Airport Limited, general manager - aeronautical, Tony Gollin, “the best thing to do is check in early, go through departure processing quickly, and then passengers can relax while they explore the wide range of duty and tax free shops.”

Check-in counters for each international flight are generally open at least three hours ahead of departure time to accommodate the anticipated seasonal increase in passenger volumes.

Gollin is also urging travellers to think before they pack to ensure they comply with security regulations which limit the quantity of liquids, aerosols and gels which can be taken through departure security screening and onto aircraft as hand luggage. The restrictions only apply to departing international flights.

“Duty free can still be purchased as usual if you are travelling direct, but there may be implications if you are stopping over or will be in transit before reaching your final destination. Airport retailers will be able to provide the information that applies to your flight.” says Gollin.

The airport company recommends all international travellers visit flysmart.govt.nz prior to travel for further information. The website provides advice for passengers carrying essential medication and items such as baby products.

Auckland airport works very closely with the airlines, Aviation Security Service, New Zealand Customs, Immigration, and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry to ensure that all aspects of the summer operation run as smoothly as possible.

“All parties involved are increasing staffing levels and are working together to co-ordinate activities so that passenger flows are straightforward this summer” says Gollin.

Gollin says that congestion should only become an issue when flights go “off-schedule,” for example if one flight arrives early at the same time as another is arriving late. “Unexpected delays can result from unanticipated changes to flight arrivals and we are working closely to ensure that any congestion that does occur has only a minimal impact on the passenger experience at Auckland Airport”

“There will be extra staff on duty, but thinking ahead will help all of us to help international travellers,” he said.

ENDS

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