In the wake of recent terror attacks overseas, the U.S. State Department issued a travel alert during one of the busiest travel holidays. While no specific threat from any terrorist group has been reported targeting the U.S., airport security across the country is extra vigilant.
Lauren Bogovic and her husband Allen flew into Southwest Florida International Airport Thursday morning from LaGuardia Airport in New York - a major hub for air travel. But even with the heightened security levels, Lauren said they got through LaGuardia's TSA lines easily.
"They weren't bad," Lauren said. "We were in and out through security, in and out through the terminals. No traffic."
The process seemed to be smooth at RSW also, where TSA officers patrolled the roped lines with K-9 dogs.
Raul Hernandez showed up 2 hours early for his flight to Dallas, and realized he had a lot of time to kill.
"I was kind of surprised at how slow it was, actually," Hernandez said. "I feel we got here a little too early."
Alan Lambert and his wife Diane flew into RSW from Detroit Thursday morning. While they quickly got through security there, they noticed it seemed to be beefed up.
"They gave me a little pat-down," Alan said. "Usually they don't take my FitBit off - I wear a FitBIt and he said 'Oh, you have to take that off and put it through.' First time it ever had to happen."
But he said that the minor inconvenience is a small price to pay if it keeps the skies and the airports safe.
"It's the holiday, and you don't want to take any chances," Alan said. "So the more security, the better, as far as I'm concerned."
The State Department's travel alert is in effect until February 24th.
