Begin the Preparations

Find Great Fares and Book

You can use a variety of online booking websites to search for the best schedules and fares, but it’s easiest (and usually cheaper) to book directly through an airline’s website, which you can find here. If changes are needed, they can refund or rebook easily, or even provide credits if your fare changes. The only place to find Southwest Airlines or Allegiant Air’s fares is on their websites.

Pack Smart

There are three types of bags you might have and each is considered differently by an airline. Find out the rules and fees by searching on your airline’s website to avoid a surprise at the airport.

• Checked bags go in the airplane’s cargo area
• Carryon bags go in the overhead bins. If your carryon is too big, or if there’s not enough room, you will have to gate check your bag. This means the airline will tag it, store it in the cargo area of the plane, and deliver it to you while you wait in the jetbridge upon your arrival.
• Personal items are something small like a purse or handbag that can go under the seat in front of you
• Make sure your bag meets size and weight requirement for the airline
• Essential items – prescription medicine, makeup, paperwork – should go in a small bag you keep with you
• Don’t forget phone or computer chargers

Dress for TSA Security

Every ticketed passenger has to go through TSA security. Packing and preparing ahead can make that easier and less stressful when you get there. If you have liquids, they need to be 3.4 ounces or less to be in a carryon bag or be placed in a checked bag. You’ll need easy access to electronic items and laptops during screening as you will be asked to remove them from your carryon bag.

• Wear slip-on shoes you can easily remove
• Wear little or no metal to avoid setting off alarms
• Make sure you don’t have weapons, knives or scissors
• Pack using 3-1-1 method for liquids. You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
• See TSA website for security screening information

Park for Convenience

ICT has four different parking options, with the lowest priced option being the Park & Ride shuttle lot. The Park & Ride shuttle will take you to the terminal. After you return to Wichita, one of the shuttles will take you from the outside of the terminal back to the lot, running every 15 minutes.

• See the parking page for all rates and locations
• Keep the parking ticket for your return trip
• Take a picture of your stall number and location to easily find your vehicle later

Checking In, Getting Ready

You can check in for your flight online up to 24 hours before departure or do so at the ticket counter. When checking in at the ticket counter, you will need to show your ID (driver’s license or passport). Either print out a boarding pass at home or use an airline’s app for a digital pass on your phone. You’ll need it for the gate agent.

• If you’re checking a bag, the ticket counter agent or airline kiosks are the place to go. You’ll need a credit card to pay for any bag fees.
• If you are not checking a bag, and if you have your boarding pass, proceed directly to the TSA checkpoint
• Download your airline’s app for up-to-date flight information. You can use this app to check in.
• Arrive at least 90 minutes early to allow for lines at the ticket counter and TSA
• Make sure you have a current government-issued photo ID
• Many airlines now offer self-tagging on your bags.  Watch this video to learn how to self-tag.

Make Screening a Breeze

With a boarding pass and ID, head to the TSA checkpoint. Show your ID to the TSA agent. Next, you’ll place your carryon and personal items into bins for x-ray screenings. You’ll need to remove your quart bag of liquids and electronics to be screened separately. Place your shoes and coats in bins, as well as the contents of your pockets (keys, change, cell phone). Finally, you’ll go through a metal detector. If the metal detector goes off, you will have additional screening as necessary. Then head to your gate or a restaurant to relax.

• Sign up for TSA Pre-Check to move through security quicker, without removing outerwear or liquids
• Make sure CPAP or medical equipment is easily accessible within bags

Kids in Tow, Easy to Go

TSA does not require children under 18 to provide identification when traveling within the United States. Contact the airline for questions regarding specific ID requirements for travelers under 18.

• TSA has developed modified screening procedures for children who appear to be 12 years old and younger
• Car seats and strollers might require fees as carryon items
• While waiting for your flight, take the children to the play area located across from Gate 1
• If flying United, ask your flight attendant for their children’s travel kit – “Ranger Rick”

Boarding and Flying

• Head to your airline’s gate as assigned on your boarding pass or flight information monitors
• Take advantage of power charging outlets under the gate seats or along the walls between the gates
• Airlines begin boarding 30 minutes before departure. Gate agents will announce how and when you’ll board the plane.
• Snacks or beverages purchased after TSA can be taken on your flight
• If you are connecting, ask the gate agent how far you will have to walk or travel via train to reach your gate

Connections

• If you are connecting at one of the hub airports, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the airport layout so you know what to expect
• We have provided this helpful information, but if you need help, ask the gate agent when you arrive

Back Home in Wichita

Once you’ve returned from your trip, your checked bags will be sent to the baggage claim. Airline flight numbers and origin cities will be visible above each carousel so you can see where to look for your bag. Once you’ve retrieved all your belongings, walk to your car or catch a parking shuttle or head outside for easy pickup by a friend or family member.

• Locate taxis and parking shuttles in front of the terminal, in the middle lane on the other side of the divider
• Find Uber or Lyft rides on the northwest corner of the parking garage. Look for the black and pink signs.
• Have personal ride options wait in the Cell Phone Lot before they come to the terminal for pickup