U s airlines expect busier travel this thanksgiving
According to recent reports, major US airlines are expecting a surge in travel demand this Thanksgiving season, with many passengers planning to take to the skies to spend the holiday with family and friends.
Here are some key statistics and insights:
- Airline passenger numbers: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen over 26 million passengers and crew members from November 20 to November 28, a 10% increase from last year's numbers.
- Flight bookings: Airlines have reported a significant increase in flight bookings, with some carriers seeing a 15-20% surge in demand compared to last year.
- Peak travel days: The busiest travel days are expected to be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving (November 22) and the Sunday after (November 26), with many flights expected to be fully booked.
- Airline capacity: To meet the increased demand, airlines have added more flights and increased their capacity. For example, American Airlines has added over 1,000 flights to its schedule, while Delta Air Lines has increased its capacity by 10%.
- Fare prices: With high demand comes higher prices. According to travel booking website Hopper, average airfare prices for Thanksgiving travel have increased by 10-15% compared to last year.
- Travel tips: To avoid the crowds and long lines, travelers are advised to:
- Book flights well in advance to secure the best prices and availability.
- Consider flying early in the morning or late at night when airports are less busy.
- Pack light to avoid checked baggage fees and reduce wait times at security checkpoints.
- Plan ahead for parking and transportation to and from the airport.
Overall, it's shaping up to be a busy and potentially chaotic travel period, so it's essential to plan ahead, be prepared, and stay flexible to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.