Traffic is picking up at the James Armstrong Richardson International Airport as the holiday season gets underway.

Tyler MacAfee, Director of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs with the Winnipeg Airports Authority says, although summer is the busiest time for travel in Winnipeg, Christmas is a close second.

"Yesterday was a busy day, tomorrow will be a busy day. We also expect December 27th and 28th to be really busy. So, all four days are about the same when it comes to passenger totals."

MacAfee says there are many ways to help things run smoothly when travelling. He gives us a few tips.

1. Give yourself some extra time

Get to the airport about an hour and a half early before their flight. There are going to be some longer lines with the higher volumes of people moving through the airport.
Screening agents, as well as food and beverage staff  will have extra people in, to help with those lines.

2. Plan your route

How are you getting to the airport? Are you taking a cab? Make sure you've called ahead. If you're parking, book ahead with the airport, so that you're not wasting time when you arrive.

3. Check the status of your flight

Check the airport website to make sure you know what time your flight is departing or arriving. Times can change at any point.

4. Don't wrap any gifts

If you're taking gifts as carry on luggage, don't wrap them. Once you're through security there is a gift wrapping station at the airport that you can use to wrap those gifts.