Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is preparing for increased passenger traffic in October as the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL) returns. The airport expects several days with more than 35,000 departing passengers, specifically on October 3, 5, 6, and 7 during the first weekend of the festival, and on October 10, 12, 13, and 14 during the second weekend.
To help travelers manage their journey during these busy periods, AUS recommends arriving at least two and a half hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. Passengers are advised to allow extra time for activities such as checking luggage or returning rental cars before proceeding to security. Traffic near the airport is expected to be heavy due to festival-related congestion.
Parking can be reserved in advance through ABIAParking.com for various airport lots. Real-time parking availability is also provided on the website. Shuttle services operate every 15–20 minutes but may experience delays because of increased traffic.
Travelers are encouraged to use either the upper level for departures or lower level for arrivals when being dropped off to minimize congestion. Those without checked bags can use mobile boarding passes or self-service kiosks to avoid lines at airline counters.
Security screening opens at 3 a.m., with TSA PreCheck and Clear available at Checkpoint 2 West. Passengers using only CLEAR should proceed to Checkpoint 1. Recent changes by TSA mean that removing shoes during screening is no longer required.
Passengers are reminded not to pack prohibited items or liquids over 3.4 ounces in carry-on bags and should review TSA guidelines if traveling with firearms by visiting TSA.gov.
The airport provides ADA-compliant shuttles between terminals and parking lots. Wheelchair assistance must be arranged directly with airlines. TSA Cares offers additional support for those needing assistance through security; this service requires booking at least 72 hours in advance via their online portal or by calling (855) 787-2227.
The Mobility Assistance Zone on the terminal’s lower level accommodates rideshares, taxis, and accessible vehicles. Mobility trams connect garages and terminals with rideshare areas and rental car facilities. The Mobility Lounge near Southwest Airlines ticket counters serves passengers with mobility limitations.
AUS participates in the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program; passengers can request a lanyard prior to travel for additional support while at the airport.
Inside the Barbara Jordan Terminal, travelers have access to local restaurants, art installations, live music stages, and amenities navigable via an interactive map on AUS’s website.
Passengers flying Allegiant or Frontier will depart from The South Terminal at a separate location from Barbara Jordan Terminal; parking onsite at South Terminal is recommended as it is not connected to other terminals.
Ongoing construction projects related to airport improvements may affect both Departures and Arrivals levels of Barbara Jordan Terminal; construction activity may occur between midnight and eight a.m., with updates available online at AustinTexas.gov/AUSConstructionUpdates.
Travelers needing assistance can contact Airport Operations Center at 512-530-2242 or approach any Department of Aviation staff member onsite.
AUS representatives will provide travel tips in person for local media on Wednesday, October 1 from 9 a.m.–11 a.m., in the Baggage Claim area of Barbara Jordan Terminal.
“Passengers may hear construction activity between midnight and 8 a.m.”
“AUS representatives will be on-site and available on the morning of Wednesday, Oct. 1, to share travel tips with local media.”
