AAA Chicago Offers Tips for Concerned Holiday Travelers

AURORA, Ill., Dec. 22, 2003 -- With the raise in the national terror color-coded threat level to Orange, AAA Chicago has put together the following tips for people who plan on traveling during the holidays.

   -- Check with your travel agent before you go.  Your travel agent will be
      able to give you the latest information, as well as any pertinent
      security information that you might need.
   -- Airports will be under a heightened state of security and it might
      take longer to get through security.  Travelers can expect more
      rigorous security checks, including canine patrols and more uniformed
      security officers.  To avoid unnecessary delays, travelers should not
      lock their baggage or pack any items that are prohibited and do not
      wrap holiday gifts until you reach your final destination.
   -- Travelers should put metal objects inside a carry-on bag; take laptops
      out of cases; take winter coats off and be prepared to remove shoes.
   -- Any undeveloped film should be carried onto the plane.  Passenger
      screening devices will not harm undeveloped film, but new screening
      equipment for checked baggage can damage the film.
   -- Access to secure areas of the airport is restricted to passengers that
      hold boarding passes.  Children flying alone or seniors needing
      assistance to the gate from a non-ticketed passenger should contact
      their travel agent for information how to make arrangements.
   -- To speed the process, AAA counsels travelers to carry two pieces of
      photo identification. Do not leave luggage unattended or carry
      anything on board an airplane for someone you don't know.
   -- AAA also suggests that passengers help reduce long lines and
      congestion at the airports by contacting the airline or their travel
      agent by telephone to confirm their flight.
   -- Passengers should plan to arrive at the airport at least two hours
      ahead of their scheduled departure time for a domestic flight, and at
      least three hours ahead of time for an international flight.

"AAA suggests travelers be aware of the increased time needed to travel this holiday season and plan accordingly," said Alexandra Petropoulos, Director of Travel at AAA Chicago. "We don't anticipate a change in holiday travel plans, but any questions should be directed to a travel agent."

AAA Chicago offers automotive, travel, insurance and financial services. It is part of The Auto Club Group (ACG), the largest affiliation of AAA clubs in the Midwest, with 4.1 million members in eight states. ACG clubs belong to the national AAA federation, a not-for-profit organization, with more than 46 million members in the United States and Canada.