Parking shortage at Atlanta airport | How to get to your flight on time

For hours on Friday, eight of ATL’s ten lots were closed because there were no seats left.

“I think it’s cheaper than parking at the airport, it’s very convenient,” Gregory said. “It’s really one stop, from the airport where I’m in and out.”

MARTA has six lots in its system with long-term airport parking. Sandy Springs and Dunwoody lots cost $5 per day. North Springs, Doraville Lindbergh and College Park are $8 per day. MARTA says Lindbergh parking requires validation.

For Hartsfield-Jackson leaders, parking on airport property isn’t the only option travelers should consider.

“MARTA has a direct connection to the terminal, use public transportation, use the shuttle, Uber and taxis to get to the airport,” said Balram Bheodari, general manager of ATL. “It’s an easy and convenient way to get to the airport.”

The airport says it currently has 33,000 spaces, but the parking problem comes as it works to add even more.

Travelers we spoke with say they think parking at MARTA is a great choice for saving money and avoiding frustration.

“MARTA is the way to go, we are experiencing it for the first time, but so far so good,” one man said.

“I never have to worry, I never have to plan,” Gregory said. “I literally pull into the parking lot, come over, and every time I get here, I know if there isn’t one here, there will be one in five or ten minutes.”

If you park at a MARTA station, you still have to pay the standard rate of $2.50 each way.

MARTA says police patrol its lots 24/7 to ensure your peace of mind.

Other options travelers might consider: private land off the airport, shuttles and carpooling.

FOX 5’s Tyler Fingert covers issues at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, MARTA and other transportation options. If you have a story, video or image you would like to share, send him an email.