DTW braces for a busy season with over 4 million DTW holiday travelers expected. New features like a sensory room and expanded shopping and flight options will help.
DTW braces for a busy season with over 4 million DTW holiday travelers expected. New features like a sensory room and expanded shopping and flight options will help.
Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) is gearing up for one of its busiest holiday seasons, with over 4 million passengers expected between November 22, 2024, and January 5, 2025. This marks a 6% increase compared to last year, signaling a strong rebound in travel. Key travel periods include Thanksgiving, with more than 900,000 passengers anticipated, and Christmas through New Year’s, expected to draw approximately 1.7 million travelers.
“We continue to see growth in passenger traffic during the holidays,” said Chad Newton, CEO of the Wayne County Airport Authority. “Our team is focused on creating a seamless, enjoyable experience for all.”
Enhancements to Ease Holiday Stress
To improve the travel experience, DTW has introduced several upgrades, including a newly unveiled Multi-Sensory Room, a haven for travelers with sensory sensitivities or cognitive disabilities. Located across from Gate A36 in the Edward H. McNamara Terminal, the room offers a tranquil space for up to six occupants, available 24/7 via an access code.
For holiday shopping, passengers can explore local artisan offerings through the SOAR (Small Business Operators Arriving Ready) program. New additions include Quix Chocolate and Rebel Nell, located in the Warren Cleage Evans Terminal across from Gate D12.
Holiday cheer will also take center stage, with live musical performances and Santa Claus making appearances in the Evans Terminal.
Expanded Flight Options for Global Explorers
Travelers looking for holiday escapes will benefit from new and reinstated flights at DTW. Delta Air Lines will launch nonstop routes to the Turks and Caicos Islands on December 21 and Tulum, Mexico, starting January 11, 2025. Additionally, Delta will resume flights to Nassau, Bahamas, inactive since March 2020.
These additions reflect DTW’s continued efforts to expand its global reach, which already includes service to over 125 destinations across three continents.
Holiday Travel Tips for a Stress-Free Journey
To help passengers navigate the holiday rush, DTW provides several tips:
- Arrive early: Allow two hours for domestic flights and three for international trips to manage parking, TSA screening, and boarding.
- Utilize DTW Destination Passes: Non-ticketed visitors can apply for same-day access to terminals, a program that has already issued over 64,000 passes since its introduction.
- Be mindful of curbside rules: Active loading and unloading are strictly enforced, with short-term parking available for $4 (30 minutes) or $6 (up to an hour).
- Avoid wrapping gifts: TSA may require wrapped packages to be opened for inspection.
- Prepare bags: Check for prohibited items before arrival to avoid screening delays.
DTW’s Continued Commitment to Excellence
As Michigan’s largest airport, DTW plays a vital role in global air travel. Serving over 31 million passengers in 2023, the airport is consistently recognized for its customer service and operational efficiency. It earned the Airports Council International’s Airport Service Quality Award twice in recent years.
With its two award-winning terminals and a slate of new features, DTW aims to continue enhancing its reputation as one of North America’s leading airports this holiday season.
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