Travelers flying out of San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT) should prepare for potential delays at the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning. City officials have announced that scheduled equipment maintenance is the cause of the anticipated slowdowns, with work expected to conclude by Thursday evening.
Key Takeaways
- Potential delays are expected at the San Angelo Regional Airport TSA checkpoint on Wednesday evening, October 1, and Thursday morning, October 2, 2025.
- The delays are due to scheduled maintenance on TSA screening equipment.
- Officials advise passengers to arrive at the airport earlier than usual to allow for extra screening time.
- Checking carry-on bags with American Airlines is suggested as a way to help reduce congestion at the checkpoint.
- The maintenance is scheduled to be completed by Thursday evening, with normal operations expected to resume afterward.
Details of the Maintenance Advisory
City officials in San Angelo issued a travel alert for passengers using the San Angelo Regional Airport (SJT). The advisory specifically points to maintenance on essential TSA equipment as the reason for potential extended wait times. The maintenance window is set for Wednesday evening and will continue through Thursday morning.
While the specific equipment undergoing maintenance was not detailed, these systems are critical for ensuring the safety and security of all flights. Regular upkeep is necessary to maintain their operational integrity and compliance with federal security standards. The work has been scheduled to be completed by Thursday evening, aiming to minimize the disruption to travelers.
Official Recommendations for Passengers
To manage the expected delays, airport and city officials have provided clear guidance for travelers. The primary recommendation is to arrive at the airport well in advance of the scheduled departure time. While standard advice is typically 90 minutes before a domestic flight, passengers may want to add an additional 30 to 60 minutes to their schedule during this period.
Another key suggestion is for passengers to consider checking their carry-on luggage. By reducing the number of bags that need to go through the checkpoint scanners, the screening process can be expedited for everyone. This service is available through American Airlines, the primary carrier at the airport.
Airport Information
San Angelo Regional Airport, also known as Mathis Field, is a key transportation hub for the Concho Valley region. It is served primarily by American Eagle, which provides multiple daily flights to Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), connecting passengers to a global network.
How to Prepare for Airport Security
Even with potential delays, passengers can take steps to ensure their own screening process is as smooth as possible. Being prepared before reaching the TSA checkpoint can significantly reduce individual screening time and help keep the line moving.
Here are some standard TSA guidelines to follow:
- Have Documents Ready: Keep your government-issued photo ID and boarding pass accessible. You will need to present them to the TSA officer.
- Follow the 3-1-1 Rule: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. All containers must fit into a single, clear, quart-sized zip-top bag.
- Prepare Electronics: Laptops and other large personal electronic devices must be removed from their bags and placed in a separate bin for screening, unless you are in a TSA PreCheck lane.
- Remove Outerwear: Be prepared to take off jackets, belts, and shoes and place them in a bin.
The Importance of TSA Equipment Maintenance
TSA screening equipment, such as Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) body scanners and X-ray machines for baggage, are complex systems that require routine maintenance. This work ensures the technology functions correctly to detect potential threats. While scheduling this maintenance can cause temporary inconvenience, it is a fundamental part of maintaining national aviation security standards.
Impact on Airport Operations
It is important for travelers to understand that the airport itself will remain fully operational. All scheduled flights are expected to depart as planned. The delays are confined specifically to the security screening checkpoint, which is the final step before passengers can proceed to their departure gates.
The advisory is a proactive measure to inform the public and mitigate the impact of the necessary maintenance. By planning ahead, passengers can help reduce personal stress and contribute to a more efficient process under the temporary circumstances.
Contact Information for Travelers
For passengers seeking more specific information or who have questions about their travel plans, officials have provided a direct contact number for the airport. Travelers can reach the San Angelo Regional Airport administration at 325-659-6409.
It is also recommended that passengers check their flight status directly with American Airlines before heading to the airport. This ensures they are aware of any changes to their scheduled departure time that are unrelated to the TSA maintenance.
