While fewer holiday travelers are expected to travel over the winter holiday season (Dec. 18, 2008, through Jan. 7, 2009), passengers should still expect busy travel conditions with the busiest days expected to be Friday, December 19, and Saturday, December 27, according to the Air Transport Association.

Fresno Yosemite International Airport wants everyone to enjoy their travel experience this holiday season, and offers these travel tips:

• Check with your airline on flight status prior to leaving for the Airport. Convenient flight status links are available on most airline websites or passengers may telephone the airline for flight status inquires.

• Sign up with your airline to receive automated travel notifications delivered to your cell phone or wireless device; in the event of system delays, airlines will keep travelers informed of flight and schedule changes. Passengers can also check on the latest airport delays via the FAA Web site at www.fly.faa.gov .

• Allow plenty of time for checking in and for security screening at the airport. If traveling on the busiest days, plan for longer-than-usual security lines.

• Use automated check-in options, offered via airline Web sites and at airport kiosks, up to 24 hours before departure.

• Familiarize yourself with the latest TSA 3-1-1 security program rules at www.tsa.gov, and with the list of TSA permitted and prohibited items.

• Travel with an unexpired government-issued photo identification.

• Pack any gifts unwrapped, as they may need to be inspected by security.

• At the security checkpoint, place metallic objects (including keys, coins, pens, cell phone, watch, camera) in carry-on baggage. Plan to carry small electronics and spare batteries with you.

• Check DOT restrictions against packing batteries in checked luggage. Check DOT for restrictions against packing batteries in checked luggage. Restriction information can be found at http://safetravel.dot.gov/ .

• Tag each bag, inside and out, with traveler name and contact information, and remove all destination baggage tags from previous trips.