Thanksgiving week is fast approaching, and along with it comes the anticipated chaos at airports and highways across the United States. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up for what is expected to be the busiest Thanksgiving ever in terms of air travel.
According to AAA, nearly 80 million Americans will be traveling at least 50 miles from home during the Thanksgiving holiday period. While most will be hitting the roads, the TSA is preparing to screen 18.3 million people at U.S. airports during the week, a 6% increase from last year.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske assured the public that staffing levels are at an all-time high to handle the surge in air travel. He emphasized that security lines are expected to be manageable, with general lines under 30 minutes and PreCheck lines under 10 minutes.
However, a strike by service workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport could pose a challenge during the holiday rush. The airport officials are predicting a record number of travelers passing through, but the strike could disrupt operations.
Additionally, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is facing a shortage of air traffic controllers, which could lead to flight delays. FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker mentioned that special measures will be implemented to manage shortages at key facilities, potentially slowing down air traffic to ensure safety.
With Thanksgiving falling late this year on November 28th, travel patterns are expected to be different. Andrew Watterson, COO of Southwest Airlines, highlighted that the post-Thanksgiving period will see a significant surge in travelers returning home, leading to peak travel days.
The rise of remote work has also impacted holiday travel, with more people combining work and leisure during the Thanksgiving period. AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz noted that travelers are leaving earlier, working remotely from their destinations, and extending their stay to spend time with family.
As travelers gear up for the Thanksgiving rush, airport security officials are urging passengers to arrive early, follow security guidelines, and avoid packing prohibited items in their carry-on bags. For drivers, INRIX recommends avoiding peak travel times on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, with smoother traffic expected on Thanksgiving Day.
In conclusion, as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, it’s essential for travelers to plan ahead, stay informed about potential disruptions, and follow safety protocols to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Whether you’re flying or hitting the road, taking proactive measures can help make your Thanksgiving travel experience more enjoyable.
