Airlines Prepare For Possible Record-Breaking Holiday Crowds

Thanksgiving is almost here and, as in years past, a lot of people will be spending the holiday traveling. That includes folks who will be driving and flying to their destinations, so if you’re going to be among them, we hope you’ll have a safe journey.

Preparing for the spike

While Thanksgiving traditionally brings with it a boost in highway and air travel, this year could see even more traffic for a couple of important reasons.

First, as the pandemic fades further into our collective memories, people are getting more comfortable with the idea of taking major trips.

Then there’s the price factor. A gallon of gas is about 37 cents cheaper than it was this time last year and the cost of an average airline ticket — $268 — is 14% less than Thanksgiving 2022.

Here’s what analysts are predicting:

• Between yesterday and today, more than 5 million Americans are expected to take to the skies.
• About 2.9 million are slated to fly back home on Sunday, which would beat a record set in late June.
• Roughly 55.4 million will travel more than 50 miles via highway between today and Sunday.

And while you’ll probably run into some crowds no matter which mode of travel you choose, there is some optimism regarding the chaos that has defined airline travel in recent years.

The Buttigieg promise

After delays, cancellations, understaffing, and irate passengers have given the industry a black eye lately, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said there are new routes, more air traffic controllers, and additional efforts underway to make flying less of a chore.

Of course, inclement weather could always throw a monkey wrench into any travel plans, so be sure to check the forecast before you head out on the road or to the airport this week.

Chris Agee November 22nd, 2023

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