The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority is gearing up for another holiday travel season between Thanksgiving and the New Year at both Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport. 

In the midst of a continuing global pandemic, it’s important that as customers keep some helpful tips in mind when traveling through Reagan National or Dulles International this holiday season:

Face coverings are required
Face coverings are required for everyone at the airport, including passengers and employees, per Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam’s May 29 mandate. Children under age 10 and people with medical conditions that prevent the wearing of face coverings are exempt. Complimentary face coverings are available at airport information booths or for purchase from various airport concessions. 

Everyone plays a part in traveling healthy
Remember to leave a little extra space around you and other passengers while in queues, at the baggage claim carrousel and on Dulles International’s AeroTrain or Mobile Lounges. Stop by one of the more than 700 hand-sanitizing stations in the airports, and remember to wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds. Watch for other health and safety measures, like glass dividers between customers and employees at key interaction points, touchless technology and increased sanitation practices. Finally, if you’re sick or awaiting results from a test for COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends staying home. 

Expect increased traffic and lines at peak times
With the airport expected to be busier during the holiday season than in recent months, it’s important to budget plenty of time to arrive, check bags and clear the TSA security checkpoint. Plan to get to the airport two hours prior to a domestic flight and three hours before an international departure. Follow all law enforcement direction for smoother traffic flow and remember the new ride app pickup curb now open at Dulles International.

Construction impacts at Reagan National
Project Journey made substantial progress in 2020. The sites under construction are behind walls or fences and are closed to the public. Curbside drop-offs and pick-ups at Terminal B/C have consolidated upstairs to the Ticketing/Check-In level. Taxi pick-ups remain downstairs outside Baggage Claim. Free parking up to 60 minutes is available in Terminal Garages. In-terminal impacts are minor, with temporary signage posted to guide travelers. New facilities are anticipated to open next year.

Airport concessions are open for shopping and dining
Concessions are open both pre- and post-security at Reagan National and Dulles International. Options include newsstand/convenience stores and a variety of food options. Be sure to check the airport’s social media channels, in-airport signage and airport websites for the most up-to-date concessions selections and their hours of operation.

Plan for parking in advance
While the economy parking lots remain closed at this time to avoid hard-to-social-distance shuttle bus rides, walkable parking from airport garages is available at both airports at a discounted rate. At Reagan National, contactless parking reservations can be made at least 24 hours in advance for a 15 percent discount. At Dulles International, garage 1 parking is $10 per day and is a short walk to the terminal through a climate-controlled tunnel.  

Check with your airline
Be sure to double check flight statuses and updated airline COVID-19 policies prior to arriving at the airport, as well as travel advisories and COVID-related testing or quarantine requirements at your final destination. 

The Airports Authority wishes all those traveling through Reagan National and Dulles International a safe, healthy and enjoyable journey and a happy holiday season. For additional information about how our airports are helping to keep passengers safe, please visit https://www.mwaa.com/safety.