More central PA air travelers are choosing to fly from closer to home, and Harrisburg International Airport (MDT) expects record-breaking travel during the 2025 Christmas and New Year’s holiday season. The airport anticipates 66,600 passengers between Dec. 20, 2025, and Jan. 3, 2026, up 2% over last year’s record.

Busiest days: Dec. 28 (5,632), Dec. 21 (5,372), Dec. 30 (5,270)
Slowest days: Dec. 25 (2,642), Dec. 24 (3,471)

Follow these simple tips to make your HIA experience as efficient and comfortable as possible:

1) Use Your Airline App

• Check in 24 hours before departure and download your boarding pass
• Add a credit card to your account (airlines don’t accept cash)
• Track your checked bags through the app (where available)
• Always carry a valid photo ID—Get your REAL ID if you don’t have one

2) Pack Smart

• Review airline baggage size, weight limits, and TSA rules at tsa.gov
• Weigh bags at home and label them with your name, phone, and email
• Pack medications and car keys in carry-on bags only
• Wear comfortable, lightweight shoes and minimal jewelry
• DO NOT wrap presents—TSA may need to inspect them

3) Arrive Early

• HIA Parking Garage ($20/day): 90 minutes before departure
• HIA Long-term Lot ($10/day): 2 hours before departure
• Checked bags must be delivered to the airline ticket counter at least 1 hour before departure
• Busiest times: 4:30–6:00 AM and 11 AM–1 PM

4) Traveling with Children?

• Explain the airport and security process beforehand
• Pack books, quiet activities, and snacks
• Bring headphones for games and electronic devices
• Buy drinks after security (see tsa.gov for liquid rules)