TULSA, Okla. –

Spring break travel is ramping up at Tulsa International Airport, where more than 100,000 passengers are expected to pass through the terminal over the next 10 days.

Airport officials say travel is up about 5% compared with last year, with roughly 124,000 passengers expected to depart from Tulsa during the spring break travel period.

So far, travelers and airport staff say operations have been running smoothly, with few disruptions to departing flights. Many passengers say Tulsa remains one of the easiest airports to navigate.

Busy Terminal As Travelers Leave Town

Inside the terminal, gates are busier than usual as travelers leave for work trips and spring break vacations.

Jenna Lighthizer and her children traveled from Tahlequah and are headed to Walt Disney World, one of the most popular family destinations in the country.

“We’re hoping it’s going to be smooth. We’ve seen some things on the news, but we feel like we’re going to get lucky,” Lighthizer said.

College students are also taking advantage of the spring break travel rush.

Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College student-athlete Kaleio Citizen is flying out of Tulsa International Airport for the first time.

“I’m heading to Tennessee for spring break,” Citizen said.

She arrived about four hours before her flight, giving her plenty of time before boarding.

“Probably hang around, watch TikTok, eat some food and probably see what all my friends are doing for spring break,” she said.

Popular Destinations

Airport officials say travelers are heading to several popular destinations, including New York City, Nashville and Chicago. Additional flights have been scheduled to meet demand.

For Lighthizer, the busy airport is worth the trip.

“It’s great. Lots of quality time, lots of fun for them, so we all enjoy it,” she said.

What Travelers Should Know

Airport officials also remind travelers to bring a REAL ID-compliant form of identification. Travelers without one may face additional screening and possible fees.

Looking ahead, Alaska Airlines will begin new nonstop flights from Tulsa to Seattle and San Diego starting next Wednesday.