As Thanksgiving approaches, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up for what is expected to be the busiest travel season in history. With travel demand surging, the TSA anticipates screening approximately 18.3 million travelers between Tuesday, November 26, and Monday, December 2, marking a 6% increase from last year. This surge in travel comes on the heels of a record-setting summer travel season and the busiest days ever recorded at U.S. airports.
Key Travel Dates to Remember
Historically, the Sunday after Thanksgiving has been the busiest travel day of the year, and 2024 is expected to follow suit. The TSA has identified the three busiest days for Thanksgiving travel this year as:
- Tuesday, November 26
- Wednesday, November 27
- Sunday, December 1
On Sunday, December 1, the TSA projects that over three million passengers will pass through its checkpoints, a feat that has only been achieved once before, on July 7 of this year. This means that the Sunday after Thanksgiving is poised to compete for the title of the busiest air travel day in U.S. history.
Preparing for the Crowds
With such high travel volumes expected, the TSA is working closely with airport and airline partners to optimize staffing and maintain wait time standards. TSA Administrator David Pekoske has expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to keep wait times manageable, aiming for 30 minutes or less in standard lanes and 10 minutes or less for TSA PreCheck passengers.
Travelers should also be aware that the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving are expected to be the second and third busiest days, with over 2.8 million and 2.9 million passengers, respectively. If you’re planning to extend your holiday getaway, be prepared for busy airports on Monday, December 2, as American Airlines anticipates this day will also see significant travel activity.
Airline Preparedness
U.S. airlines are bracing for the influx of travelers, with a collective expectation to serve over 31 million passengers during the Thanksgiving period—an increase of nearly 7% from last year and about 10% higher than in 2019. American Airlines CEO Robert Isom has noted the tremendous demand, indicating that airlines are prepared for record loads.
Despite the apprehension many travelers may feel due to past operational challenges, 2024 has seen a marked improvement in airline performance. So far this year, U.S. carriers have canceled around 1.4% of flights, which is consistent with 2023 levels and significantly better than the 2.3% cancellation rate seen in 2022. Southwest Airlines, in particular, has reported a cancellation rate of just 0.9%, thanks to substantial investments in technology and operations following its holiday meltdown in 2022.
Spirit Airlines Bankruptcy: What It Means for Travelers
In a recent development, Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. However, the airline has assured travelers that operations will continue as normal during the proceedings. Legal experts have indicated that customers should not experience any disruptions, as tickets will still be honored, and flights will operate as scheduled.
Road Travel Trends
While air travel is expected to be exceptionally busy, the majority of Thanksgiving travelers—nearly 90% of the 79.9 million total—will be hitting the road. AAA forecasts that the heaviest traffic will occur on the Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons leading up to Thanksgiving, as getaway travelers collide with evening commuters. Additionally, expect heavy traffic on Monday, December 2, as travelers return home.
In good news for road trippers, gas prices are trending down, with the national average potentially falling below $3 per gallon for the first time since 2021. This is a welcome change from last year, when the average was around $3.26 per gallon.
Tips for Smooth Holiday Travel
To ensure a stress-free travel experience this Thanksgiving, consider the following tips:
- Book Airport Parking in Advance: Many major U.S. airports allow travelers to reserve parking spaces online, often at a discount. This can save you time and frustration on busy travel days.
- Download the MyTSA App: If you don’t have TSA PreCheck, the MyTSA app can help you monitor checkpoint wait times in real-time, allowing you to plan your arrival at the airport more effectively.
- Know Your Ticket Inclusions: Before heading to the airport, double-check what your ticket includes. Some airlines have relaxed their policies, but many no-frills tickets still come with restrictions that could lead to unexpected fees.
- Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with the TSA’s Flight Rights dashboard, which outlines what airlines are obligated to provide in the event of delays or cancellations. Remember, if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to travel.
- Familiarize Yourself with Your Airline’s App: Download your airline’s app and learn how to navigate it. In the event of a delay or cancellation, you may be able to rebook your flight directly through the app.
- Be Mindful of TSA Liquid Rules: If you plan to bring Thanksgiving food with you, remember the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids. Solid foods are generally allowed in carry-on bags, but liquids must comply with the regulations.
Plan Ahead for Year-End Travel
If you haven’t booked your Christmas and New Year’s flights yet, now is the time to do so. According to Google Flights, prices are likely to rise significantly in the coming weeks, so securing your travel plans early can save you money and stress.
Conclusion
As we approach one of the busiest travel seasons of the year, being informed and prepared can make all the difference. Whether you’re flying or driving, understanding the trends and taking proactive steps can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday travel experience. Safe travels, and happy Thanksgiving!
