JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – As we move deeper into the holiday travel rush, airports across the country are preparing for record-breaking crowds.
Millions of travelers are expected to fly between now and New Year’s, and the TSA says it’s ready—but there are some changes passengers should know about before heading to the airport.
After the government shutdown, TSA says it’s back to being fully staffed and ready for what could be a record-breaking holiday rush.
The agency expects to screen more than 44 million travelers nationwide during this holiday period, which runs through Jan. 4.
If those numbers hold, it would be the busiest holiday stretch TSA has ever seen.
United Airlines says this will be its busiest winter holiday ever, with the days right after Christmas expected to be especially busy.
American Airlines is planning for an average of four flights taking off every minute during its holiday travel window.
Travelers may notice a few changes at airport security this year.
TSA now requires passengers to have a REAL ID–compliant license or another acceptable form of identification, so checking that before you leave home is key.
TSA is also rolling out new options to help speed things up.
There are dedicated PreCheck lanes for military and other uniformed service members, and at some airports, separate screening lines for families.
And for some passengers, there’s good news—depending on the airport and technology in place, travelers may no longer need to remove their shoes at security checkpoints.
All of this comes as airlines prepare for packed planes.
AAA estimates more than 8 million people will fly within the U.S. this holiday season, making planning especially important.
Ground travel
While millions are taking to the skies this holiday season, the vast majority of travelers will be staying closer to the ground.
AAA says this Christmas and New Year’s rush will bring record numbers of drivers onto the roads, and timing your trip could make all the difference.
AAA estimates about 109.5 million people will travel by car this Christmas and New Year’s holiday period. That’s a 2% increase from last year, making road travel by far the most popular option.
Traffic experts say the weekend before Christmas—Saturday and Sunday—will be especially busy, as families head out early to beat the rush.
The day after Christmas, Friday, is also expected to see heavy congestion, as people make quick turnarounds or head out for New Year’s plans.
There is some good news, though. If you can be flexible, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day—both falling on Thursdays—are expected to be the quietest days on the roads, according to traffic analysts.
And drivers may catch a break at the pump.
Gas prices have dropped nationwide, with the average sitting at $2.79 a gallon, which could help ease some of the cost of holiday travel.
AAA recommends drivers leave early, avoid peak afternoon and evening hours if possible, and build in extra time for unexpected delays.