ATLANTA — Travelers flying this year for the holidays should consider this warning: parking may be challenging with so many people passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
The key is to think ahead.
Start with the airport's newest deck -- ATL West -- which has 5,500 spaces and the latest technology. It is located near the Rental Car Center.
"It is ticketless, so you don't have to worry about losing your ticket or anything like that. We use license plate as your credential," Hughie Galbreath said, Hartsfield's director of parking and ground transportation.
To find the deck, drivers can follow the signs to the Rental Car Center as they enter the airport. Once inside the deck, technology takes over.
"Another benefit we have is a space guidance system, so no more looking for a parking space throughout the deck because of the technology that we've incorporated into the deck, it takes you to the next available space," Galbreath said.
And then, it's easy. Travelers can park at ATL West and get on the ATL SkyTrain and be at the Terminal in less than three minutes.
Travelers can also try making advance reservations for the 2,500 other airport parking spaces in the airport complex.
"Make sure that you utilize the atl.com website for parking availability and utilize our online reservations as we have online options not only at ATL West but we also have it at ATL Select and at both our International Decks," Galbreath advised.
Those who park at ATL West and are heading back to Atlanta will have a quick trip to their vehicle. After claiming luggage, travelers can get on the SkyTrain and they will be back be ATL West within minutes.
Having the app -- ParkATL Pay+ -- also helps. With the your license plate recorded at ATL West, your credit card will take care of the rest.
But for anyone who wants to risk it and hunt among the 33,000 total available spaces around the airport, watch for the posted signs telling drivers which lots are open.
There is also an alternative to check out off-site parking. For reservations, parking lot availability and general airport information, click here.