Editor’s note: This story is part of The Dallas Morning News’ coverage of the 2024 total solar eclipse. For more, visit dallasnews.com/eclipse.
Monday is going to be a busy day at Dallas-Fort Worth airports. Thousands of travelers are expected to arrive in North Texas on April 8 in hopes of viewing the total solar eclipse.
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Even though the latest forecasts aren’t looking too bright for visibility, DFW International Airport and Dallas Love Field are anticipating more visitors than usual.
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More than 15,000 people are estimated to arrive at Love Field on Southwest Airlines flights, and there are more than 19,000 local departures and transfers planned.
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DFW’s airport’s rental car partners expect to have the busiest days on record for car rentals around the time of the eclipse, said an airport spokesperson. Nearly every rental car agency is sold out for the April 8 event, and the few cars that are left are demanding rates of $600 a day and higher.
The uptick in planned travel has prompted several Texas counties to issue states of emergency, and the Federal Aviation Administration has warned of travel delays at some airports, including DFW International Airport.
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Standard high-volume traffic procedures will be implemented on the day of the eclipse if it’s needed at Love Field. These include measures like having extra staff, enhanced monitoring of facilities and security and traffic patrols.
Drivers are recommended to seek safe viewing locations during the eclipse to avoid endangering themselves or others.
Like any busy travel period, a Love Field spokesperson advises local travelers to arrive at least 90 minutes before their departure time to account for potential congestion in parking, traffic, check-in and security screening.
Expect a busy travel day if you’re going to DFW Airport or Love Field on April 8
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