Connecting Communities

We’re Ready for Thanksgiving Travel. Are You?

November 17, 2023

The Thanksgiving travel period kicks off today and U.S. airlines are excited to begin welcoming a record number of travelers to the skies over the next 11 days! Carriers have been preparing for the holiday season for months – and are ready to transport a historic 30 million people. Today through November 27, U.S. airlines are expecting nearly 2.7 million passengers each day – including a staggering 3.2 million travelers on the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

We know how important it is to each of our passengers to arrive to the Thanksgiving dinner table safely – and on time. This is why U.S. airlines have been preparing for months to make sure they are ready to welcome the record number of travelers. Our industry has been getting ready in several ways, including:

• Offering 253,000 additional seats per day;
• Operating larger aircraft;
• Adjusting routes to reduce strain on the system; and
• Building our largest workforce in two decades.

What does this all mean? U.S. airlines have done everything within their control to prepare for a safe, efficient holiday travel season – and we are ready for you!

In addition to packing your patience, A4A’s Senior Vice President for Communications Rebecca Spicer reminds travelers to download their carrier’s mobile app before heading to the airport. “This is by far and away the most effective and efficient way for your airline to communicate with you,” Spicer said. “Everything from your boarding pass to gate notifications to weather related changes.”

As airports are going to be historically crowded, Spicer also encourages everyone to pack a snack and an empty water bottle that can be filled after the security checkpoint. More tips for travelers can be found here.

Safety is our industry’s top priority, 24/7, 365 days a year. U.S. airlines and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are working diligently to prioritize the safety of travelers this holiday season, especially when it comes to winter weather. A4A’s Rebecca Spicer explains the unique challenges winter weather – including snowstorms and ice storms – poses to flights and how you can receive the latest updates about your travel plans.

“Decisions to change flight plans are never taken lightly,” Spicer added. “They are always done in the interest of safety.”

Travel Tips

Download your airline’s mobile app: Be sure your carrier’s app is on your phone! Carriers have been making significant investments in their technologies, making these apps the best way to receive updates about your travel plans.

Allow plenty of time: Airports across the country are going to busy, so make sure you allow plenty of time if you are hailing a taxi or using a ride share company, especially if you are heading to the airport early in the morning or late at night.

Pack snacks and an empty water bottle: Be prepared by packing a snack and taking an empty water bottle that you can fill after you go through the security checkpoint.  

Enroll in TSA PreCheck: If you are enrolled in TSA PreCheck, make sure the TSA checkmark is on your boarding pass for a faster and smoother experience at the security checkpoint.