Pre-Travel Preparation
To help your family ready for a trip, here are some tips from Norfolk International Airport.
Info & Planning
• Mothers Rooms are available in the Main Lobby Pre-Security, on Concourse A near Gate A2,
and Concourse B near Gate B19
• Diapers, medicine, and other items can be found for purchase at one of ORF’s many Hudson Stores. Clothing and other fun souvenirs are also available in stores throughout the airport.
• Changing tables are conveniently located within family restrooms and in most other restrooms.
Getting to the Airport
When traveling with children, add some extra time for bathroom stops or other unplanned
activities. We suggest getting to the airport at least two hours before your flight’s scheduled departure. You can also reserve parking before you leave for the airport to ensure a space and save some money.
Check-In
Check in to your flight early online so you’ll have one less step upon arrival at the airport. If you haven’t yet checked in for your flight; need to check luggage, a car seat or stroller; or just have questions about your children’s tickets, please see an agent at the Check-in desk for your airline. In many instances an infant traveling on your lap will still need a boarding pass and the agent can help you obtain one. TSA does not require travelers under age 18 to provide identification when flying within the United States. Airlines typically do not require travelers to present identification at the gate just before a flight.
Going Through Security
Security checkpoints can be overwhelming for children. Prepare them by explaining what to expect. Knowing the steps ahead of time can help ease their anxiety and make the experience smoother for everyone.
Read more Traveling Tips and Tricks from TSA (https://www.tsa.gov/blog/2020/08/06/traveling-family) For specifics regarding screening procedures for children, as well as regulations on accessibility and liquid restrictions, please visit TSA’s website: (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/traveling-children)
TSA KIDS – Our Best Travel Tips
TSA Cares
TSA provides special assistance for persons with disabilities or medical conditions through a program called TSA Cares (https://www.tsa.gov/travel/tsa-cares/passenger-support). Travelers may request a TSA Passenger Support Specialist to escort them through the security screening process and are strongly encouraged to contact TSA Cares at least three days before a scheduled flight. You can request assistance online (https://www.tsa.gov/contact-center/form/cares) or by calling 855-787-2227.
Activities for Families at the Airport
KidsPort Play Area – Keep the little ones entertained and get their wiggles out while awaiting a flight. Check out the KidsPort Play Area in the Main Lobby, prior to ORF’s security checkpoints.
ORF Coloring Book and Activity Kit – O is for ORF. We’ve created an aviation-themed activity & coloring book just for you! Ask for one at our Information Center in the Main Lobby or download & print here.
My First Flight Pin – Is it a little traveler’s first flight? Stop by the information Center to receive a “My First Flight” pin to commemorate the milestone. Wear the pin throughout your travel journey at ORF to let our staff know!
Tour ORF – Take a tour of the airport. Individuals and groups are welcome to self-tour all areas that do not require security clearance. Airport terminals are open 24 hours daily. Download the self-guided tour here.
Live Music – Live in the Lobby – Live performers play music to entertain and relax our guests through their travels. (Page Coming Soon)
Art – More than 25 works of art are on display throughout the airport. Work off some energy and tour ORF’s Art Collection. (Page Coming Soon)
Family Friendly Dining – Many of the restaurants at ORF have kid’s menus and can provide healthier food options upon request. Self-serve kiosks also have fresh fruit and grab and go snacks for purchase.
Hidden Disabilities – Sunflower Lanyard
Not all disabilities are visible—some, such as autism, anxiety, hearing loss, and PTSD, are not immediately apparent.
ORF is proud to support the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard program, an initiative designed to discreetly signal to airport staff that the wearer may require extra assistance during their journey. Participants in the program wear a green lanyard printed with a sunflower pattern as a recognizable symbol.
Participation in this program is voluntary, and wearing the lanyard does not grant expedited service or priority access in queues. Passengers needing wheelchair assistance or other special accommodations must still arrange these services directly with their airline.
If you are traveling through ORF, you can request a Sunflower Lanyard by emailing your full name to info@norfolkairport.com. Lanyards can be picked up at the Information Center or shipped to you within the United States. If you prefer delivery, please include your full name and the postal address where the lanyard should be sent. Kindly allow up to seven business days for processing, plus additional time for U.S. Postal Service delivery.