Sky Harbor International Airport Memorial Day Travel Tips

The Memorial Day weekend kicks off the summer travel season. Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s busiest days will be Friday and Monday, with passenger traffic about 20 percent higher than an average day. Sky Harbor is offering several new services along with tips to make your trip through the airport more efficient.

Prepaid Discount Parking offers the convenience of parking in the terminal garage at a reduced price. The easy-to-use online reservation system allows travelers to book and prepay for parking in the Terminal 2, Terminal 3, or Terminal 4 garages. Those using Prepaid Discount Parking should take a ticket when entering the garage, then present the ticket and the prepaid parking confirmation (printed or on a smartphone) to the cashier upon exit. To reserve parking, visit skyharbor.com.

Early Bag Check is a convenient service that gives travelers flying American, Southwest or US Airways the opportunity to check their bags before they arrive at Terminal 4 and avoid the ticket counter lines. The Early Bag Check service is available at East Economy Parking, the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station® and at the Rental Car Center. The service is free, though airline bag fees may apply. For hours of operation and more information, visit skyharbor.com/earlybagcheck.

Pick-up and Drop-Off: One of Sky Harbor’s best kept secrets is the 44th Street and Washington PHX Sky Train® station. Save time by dropping off and picking up your party at the station instead of at Terminal 4. The station offers Early Bag Check and kiosks where you can print your boarding passes, and it is only a short, five-minute ride from the station to Terminal 4. There is a free cell phone waiting lot at the station and four-hour parking meters for those who would like to park and ride the train into the Airport to meet their party. To access the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station from the 202 Red Mountain Freeway, exit at 44th Street and head south. The PHX Sky Train Station is on the southwest corner of 44th Street and Washington.

Additional important travel tips: 

• Arrive at the Airport two hours before your flight departs, especially if you are parking in economy areas or checking bags.
• Be sure to look through your purse or carry-on bag before you come to the Airport. A forgotten weapon can cause you delays, hassles, and even fines. Make your travel experience hassle-free: double check your bag BEFORE you come to the airport. Visit tsa.gov for information about what can be placed in your carry-on.
• For updated information on parking lot and garage availability, visit skyharbor.com/FindASpot or call our 24-hour parking hotline at 602-273-4545.
• Visit skyharbor.com on your smartphone or tablet to access our mobile website to find out which restaurants and shops are near your gate as well as other Airport information.