Albany International Airport Prepares for Busy Fourth of July Travel Period

Albany International Airport is preparing for a busy Fourth of July travel period, as passenger traffic at ALB continues to trend at or near record-setting levels during the nation’s 250th anniversary year.

In 2025, nearly 3.2 million travelers passed through the terminal at Albany International Airport, making it the busiest year in the airport’s history. Early passenger data shows that momentum has continued into 2026. Through May, ALB recorded 628,200 enplanements and 638,131 deplanements, putting the airport ahead of its 2025 pace through the same point in the year.

According to AAA, 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel during the Fourth of July holiday period this year, including 5.84 million by air. At ALB, more than 98,000 passengers are expected to pass through the terminal between Sunday, June 28 and Monday, July 6, making it one of the busiest travel periods of the summer. 

“This is shaping up to be another very strong year for Albany International Airport, and that continued growth reflects the confidence travelers have in ALB,” said Sam Fresina, Chair of the Albany County Airport Authority. “We are proud of the progress being made across the airport, from the complete revitalization of Concourse A to the ongoing transformation of our main terminal. These investments are all focused on creating a more enjoyable and efficient experience for local travelers.”

As passenger traffic continues to grow, ALB is also making significant progress on several major improvements designed to enhance the travel experience. Concourse A has been fully remodeled, providing updated gate areas, improved seating, and a more modern experience for passengers. In the main terminal, approximately 40 percent of the new Departure Hall opened to the public in April, creating additional space and a more comfortable experience for travelers waiting in line at the TSA security checkpoint.

New passenger amenities have also opened over the past year, including a Children’s Play Area, Sensory Room, Business Center, and Nursing Mothers’ Room.

“Fourth of July is one of the great travel weekends of the summer, and we’re looking forward to welcoming thousands of passengers through Albany International Airport,” said Peter Stuto, Chief Executive Officer of the Albany County Airport Authority. “Our team is ready, and with a little planning, travelers can help make their airport experience smooth and stress-free. We encourage passengers to arrive early, give themselves extra time, and follow the guidance of airport staff as we continue making improvements throughout the terminal.”

To accommodate the busy holiday travel period, ALB is working closely with its airline partners, TSA, parking and ground transportation teams, concessionaires, and airport staff to help maintain a smooth and efficient experience for travelers.

Passengers flying out of ALB are encouraged to plan ahead and follow these important travel tips:

• Arrive at least two hours before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking, check-in, security screening, and reaching your gate.

• Travelers using the Economy Lot should allow at least 20 additional minutes beyond the recommended two-hour airport arrival window.

• Extra shuttle service is operating to and from the Economy Lot during the holiday travel period.

• Check in early using your airline’s website or mobile app

• Review TSA travel guidelines at www.tsa.gov before packing to avoid bringing prohibited items in carry-on or checked luggage.

• Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the TSA checkpoint.

• Make sure you are REAL ID compliant. Travelers can learn more at tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/identification.

• Consider enrolling in TSA Precheck for a faster and more convenient screening process.

As construction continues at ALB, passengers and those picking up or dropping off travelers should also keep the following in mind:

• Construction is active in front of the terminal. Some traffic lanes and vestibules are temporarily closed. 

• Curbside parking is not permitted. Follow instructions from security personnel for all drop-off and pick-up activity. 

• Use the free cell phone/observation lot on Albany Shaker Road to wait until your passenger is ready for pickup. 

The first hour in all parking areas is free, allowing convenient drop-off without curbside congestion.