JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are hitting the roads and skies, making this one of the busiest travel times of the year. According to AAA, nearly 80 million people will journey at least 50 miles from home between Wednesday and Monday.
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At Jacksonville International Airport, travelers are reporting smooth sailing.
Crystal Spier, traveling with her family to North Carolina, noted their stress-free experience. Her daughter, Kayla, said, “So far, it has been really smooth, and we’re hoping to keep it that way,” she said, also acknowledging the potential for delays.
Others shared similar stories. Debbie Cross, awaiting a flight from Ohio, expressed her surprise at the ease of travel. “The traffic was not nearly as bad as I thought it was going to be; everything is good,” she said, as she eagerly anticipated reuniting with her soon-to-be remarried ex-husband.
Despite the positive experiences for air travelers, road trips paint a different picture. Kevin and Virginia Dunville drove over 24 hours from Canada to Jacksonville. Reflecting on their journey, Kevin remarked, “It gets worse the further south you get,” attributing the increase in traffic to the holiday rush.
For others like Robin and Louis Colvin, who are driving an RV to Fayetteville, Georgia, traffic isn’t a concern. “We’re retired,” Robin said. “Whenever we get there, it’ll be okay. Take your time, don’t be in a hurry, make stops, get coffee, and just enjoy life.”
AAA estimates a record-breaking 72 million people will drive this Thanksgiving, a number that highlights the nation’s eagerness to gather for the holiday despite potential challenges.
Back at Jacksonville International Airport, the holiday hustle continues, with about 14,000 travelers expected to fly out today alone. The same volume is anticipated for Sunday and Monday, signaling a busy return home for many.
As Thanksgiving travel ramps up, officials remind everyone to “pack your patience” and savor the journey, whether by air or road.