Holiday Travel Season to See Record Numbers, FAA and TSA Prepare for Busy Period
As millions of Americans prepare to travel for Thanksgiving, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are taking steps to ensure a smooth and secure travel experience.
The FAA has announced plans to use military airspace specially opened for civilian use to accommodate the increased volume of flights during the holiday season. This move is expected to reduce delays and minimize inland volume.
The TSA has projected that more than 18 million airport screenings will take place during the Thanksgiving holiday period, which is expected to be the busiest travel period on record. The agency has encouraged travelers to plan ahead and follow TSA travel tips to ensure smooth passage.
The busiest travel days are expected to be Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after the holiday, with about 3 million screenings per day. Passenger volumes have hit record highs in 2024, showing a 17% increase since 2022.
To avoid longer screening times at checkpoints, the TSA advises travelers to “pack smart” and follow certain guidelines. All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be 3.4 ounces or less when packed in a carry-on bag, and certain foods, such as gravy and cranberry sauce, must be packed in a checked bag if they exceed 3.4 ounces.
Other travel tips include arriving at the airport early, bringing an acceptable ID, and properly packing firearms in hard-sided, locked cases in checked luggage and declaring them to the airline.
The TSA has thanked its employees for their dedication to working the holiday and has encouraged travelers to appreciate their hard work.