Denver International Airport is preparing for a busy week as thousands of students and families plan to fly to Colorado for spring break.

Although the number of travelers is projected to be lower than in years past, DIA officials are expecting around 50,000 people to pass through security beginning on Thursday and on March 19, 21, 26 and 28, said Emily Williamson, a spokesperson for the airport in an email statement.  

Williamson said that the expected number of travelers during the spring break period will be the highest since the last March when the coronavirus pandemic began. 

The number of passengers is slightly down from 2019’s spring break period where the airport recorded an average of 62,000 passengers each day. However, this year’s numbers are expected to be much higher than last year.

“Last March we averaged 40,000 (travelers) through the checkpoint each day,” Williamson said. 

She added that the number drastically declined toward the end of March due to COVID-19. 

Despite the rise in traffic at the airport, Williamson said that projections for this month are still expected to be 30% lower than normal.

Even though the number of passengers is steadily returning to normal at DIA, their safety and cleaning protocols are not. Travelers will still be required to wear a face mask at all-times while inside the airport.

Hand sanitization stations have also been placed throughout the airport.

Health-conscious travelers can also utilize several of the airport’s newest amenities such as VeriFLY and Eats Delivered.

VeriFLY allows travelers who download the VeriFLY app, the ability to reserve a designated TSA screening time through a dedicated lane.

Similarly, Eats Delivered allows travelers to order food without the line. Travelers can order food from a variety of venues inside the airport, which will be delivered to their desired location within 30 minutes or less. 

Although the number of travelers headed to and from DIA isn’t as high as a traditional pre-COVID year, everyone is just happy to see people flying again.

“I think, like everyone, we’re excited for life to feel more ‘normal’ again, though are still focused on safety,” Williamson said. 

“We want people who are ready to travel to know we’re prepared for them, and have their safety in mind, and if you’re not quite ready to travel again, that’s okay too! We’ll be here when you’re ready!”