Close-in Parking, Fly For Less, Be On Time at OAK This Labor Day Weekend

-- Newly Relocated Economy Lot is Closer to Terminals at Same Low $15 Rate --

Airlines serving Oakland International Airport (OAK) still have plenty of low-cost seats on flights over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Parking will be available all weekend long in all of OAK's close-in lots, including the recently relocated Economy lot where customers will pay the same low $15 rate.

Airport officials expect that approximately 150,000 passengers will travel through OAK over the five-day travel period that runs August 28 through September 1. The peak travel days are Thursday, Friday and Monday. An average day at OAK, based upon July 2008 statistics, is about 34,000 travelers.

OAK travelers should plan to arrive at least 90 minutes prior to departure time for domestic flights and three hours for international flights, or as advised by their airline. Allow enough time for freeway and local roadway traffic delays, parking, flight check-in, and baggage and passenger security screening.

GUARANTEED ON-AIRPORT PARKING
Parking is expected to be available at OAK over the holiday period. OAK offers over 7,000 parking spaces in its three lots which are open 24 hours a day. Shuttle buses provide regular service between the terminals and the Daily and Economy lots. For parking availability and road conditions, travelers can call TravInfo's 511-information line, or the airport's parking assistance line at 510-563-3200, or visit oaklandairport.com. On-airport parking rates per 24 hours are: $15 in the Economy lot which was recently relocated closer to the terminals; $22 in the Daily lot; and $32 in the Hourly lot. OAK's premium Valet parking serves time-pressed travelers with its convenient location between Terminals 1 and 2 on the second curb.

OAK's Park & Call Zone allows meeters and greeters who can connect to their passenger by cell phone to wait for FREE up to 30 minutes. Drivers must stay with their vehicle at all times. The 25-space lot is available on a first-come, first-served basis. From Airport Drive, take the second exit ramp for John Glenn Drive and follow the signs to the Park & Call entrance, on the right near the Oakland Maintenance Center.

SPEEDING THROUGH FLIGHT CHECK-IN AND SECURITY
OAK and all other U.S. airports continue to maintain a high-level of security. Help us to help you have a pleasant travel experience by planning ahead before coming to the airport. Some valuable travel tips follow:

BOARDING PASS AND I.D. - to proceed through OAK's passenger security checkpoint, a government-issued photo ID is required of all travelers age 18 and older and ALL passengers must present a boarding pass or other airline-approved document;

3-1-1 - get the 3-1-1 on air travel: liquids, gels and aerosols must be in three-ounce or smaller containers and placed in a one-quart, clear, plastic zip-top bag; Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows one plastic bag per passenger. Larger quantities of liquids and gels will need to be placed in checked bags;

CHECKED BAGS - some airlines now charge for more than one checked bag, so pack only what is absolutely necessary for travel to avoid additional costs. Visit airline websites to learn checked bag policies; and

CARRY-ON LUGGAGE - travelers are limited to two carry-on bags, which include a personal item such as a handbag, briefcase, diaper bag or laptop computer. To avoid a secondary inspection which may average three minutes per person, place loose metal items such as coins, keys, cell phones and jewelry in carry-on bags; remove outer garments and shoes as the TSA has made shoe screening mandatory for all passengers.

At OAK, two programs help speed travelers through passenger screening. TSA offers Self-Select lanes that guide passengers based on their travel needs and knowledge. Signs are marked Expert, Casual and Family/Special Assistance, and TSA staff assists travelers with getting in their appropriate lane. Clear members are able to speed through security screening at OAK with more predictability and less hassle. Clear lanes open at 4:30 a.m. and are clearly marked with neon blue signage.

OAK recently completed its $300 million Terminal Improvement Program designed to add convenience, security and customer service to the passenger experience. OAK customers are now enjoying easier travel through the airport's newly expanded and renovated Terminal 2 which features local, regional and nationally-branded restaurants and shops, and improved roadways, curbsides and parking lots. OAK is a revenue division of the Port of Oakland, an independent department of the city of Oakland. OAK has served the travel needs of San Francisco Bay Area residents and visitors for over 80 years. Visit oaklandairport.com for more information.
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