SA Airport

kbielak17

Hey ladies,

We're going to Chicago next month and flying out of SA. We've never been to the airport there so we're not sure what to expect. How are lines going through security? At the airline counter? We won't be checking bags but because of DH's name, he is on the "terrorist watch list" and can't usually check in online (such a PITA).

Anyway, our flight is early in the morning and since we have a 2-hour drive to get to the airport, we're trying to decide if it's better to just get a hotel the night before. Any tips or insight would be great. TIA!

anna.kelley

I usually get to SA airport no more than an hour before my flight (maybe a little earlier if I have to park v. being dropped off).  As long as you aren't flying Monday AM or Friday PM, you shouldn't have too much of a line.  I don't usually check in online, but I do use the confirmation code to use a kiosk at the airport and that is much faster than waiting in line with the people checking bags (usually just walk right up).  The terminal is very small, so once you're through security, you're good to go.  Hope this helps!

kbielak17

Yes it does, thanks!

DH usually can't check in on the kiosk either. We really hate that we HAVE to talk to a person. You would think after years of flying and years of going through this they could put something in the system that allows him to not have to check in with a person. It's so frustrating.

marisa39

Check to see if your flight will be leaving out of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.  Terminal 1 is the largest and busiest - I've heard of people waiting 1.h hrs there, but I have never had to wait more than a half-hour.  Terminal 2 is very small.  Every time I go there has been little to no line.

dawnzer

marisa39:

Check to see if your flight will be leaving out of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2.  Terminal 1 is the largest and busiest - I've heard of people waiting 1.h hrs there, but I have never had to wait more than a half-hour.  Terminal 2 is very small.  Every time I go there has been little to no line.

This.  Southwest is out of Terminal 1 and the security line is pretty long first thing in the morning - on weekdays because of business travelers and on weekends for people going on vacation trips. 1.5 hours tops to get to your gate, but since you have to check in with a person, I would give yourself 2 hours if you are in terminal 1 and leaving first thing in the morning.