Summer Travel, New Body Scanners Creating Long Lines At El Paso Airport

For years, El Pasoans have been able to pretty much ignore recommended check-in times at El Paso International Airport.

But summer vacations and the airport’s new full body scanners are causing long lines and lots of headaches for El Paso travelers. Airport officials are recommending travelers get to the airport at least two hours before their flight to check in.

“I saw the line and I thought, what the… What’s going on, man?” said Susan Cooper, who barely made her flight after driving two hours to El Paso.

Another traveler was annoyed by the delays.

“I know it’s the way it has to be, got it. But it sucks!” said Cooper and she’s not alone, “Take off your jewelery, your shoes, might as well come in naked. No water, no coffee, nothing!” the traveler said.

Morgan Snively, an agent with Sun Travel, sympathizes with travelers, but said it is all about safety.

“I know it’s a hassle at times, but you know what, bottom line is to make sure we’re all safe on our flights,” Snively said.

She says long wait times aren’t all you need to worry about.

If you miss your flight, airlines can make you pay a change fee which can cost anywhere from $150 for domestic flights, up to $300 for international flights.

“Two hours sounds like a long time but I’d rather be sitting there checked in two hours, have a nice cup of coffee and relax, than be rushing through and be worried about your flight,” said Snively.

The airlines will work with you – to a point.

“The ticket counter they’re going to do everything they can to help, they’re definitely not there to make your life miserable although it sometimes might feel that way,” said Snively.

Whether you pay a fee and how much you pay depends on your ticket and restrictions.

If you don’t like what you hear from the gate attendant, some passengers report getting a different answer when calling the airline’s headquarters.

But to avoid any problems, show up early.

And remember, you’re not the only one flying.

“There are like six, seven flights heading out with say, 200 to 300 people on that flight. These flights are full so that’s over 1,000 people leaving at the same time,” said Snively.

Besides showing up early, Snively suggests to confirm your flight 24 hours in advance.

Related Links:Link: TSA Imaging Technology Explained, FAQs, Link:El Paso International Airport Website