Travelers at Reagan National Opt for Advance Parking Reservations Amid Ongoing Space Crunch

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport continues to see record-breaking travel volumes, leading to a persistent parking shortage that has travelers turning to advance reservations to secure their spot. With over 25 million passengers served in 2023 alone — a figure that has already been outpaced in the first half of 2025 — airport parking has become a planning priority for both frequent flyers and occasional travelers.

Faced with regular overflows in the Economy and Terminal garages, more passengers are reserving parking online before arriving at the airport. The airport’s official parking system now allows users to compare options, lock in discounted rates, and guarantee availability — a welcome change for those who’ve previously encountered full lots and last-minute stress. In fact, airport officials report a significant rise in pre-booking usage, particularly during holidays and peak travel months.

The current parking demand surge comes amid major infrastructure changes. The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) is investing over $300 million in a multiyear expansion project, which includes a new parking structure slated to open in 2027. This facility is designed to add thousands of spaces and modernize the airport’s parking operations with digital wayfinding, license plate recognition, and contactless payment systems.

To manage the crunch until then, digital signage around the airport helps drivers navigate to available spaces, while real-time updates via the airport’s website and mobile app show which garages still have capacity. Airport officials urge travelers to check online or reserve ahead to ensure a smooth experience.

While public transportation remains a convenient option thanks to the adjacent Metrorail station, parking remains in high demand — especially for early-morning and weekend flights. Advance reservation is quickly becoming not just a convenience, but a necessity at Reagan National, helping both passengers and the airport manage capacity during this period of rapid growth and redevelopment.