The United States is bracing for one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel seasons in years, with millions of Americans set to drive, fly, and take public transit to be with loved ones. This year’s travel period is expected to be one of the most significant in recent history, with an estimated 81.8 million Americans planning to travel at least 50 miles for the holiday. AAA predicts that 73 million of these travelers will be taking to the roads, with the highest demand for car rentals in cities such as Orlando, Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Newark.
The auto club has warned that while most travelers will opt for driving, the number of those choosing to drive instead of fly could increase due to potential flight cancellations. AAA also noted that its booking data shows domestic car rentals are 15% cheaper compared to last Thanksgiving, making driving a more appealing option for some. This trend is expected to alleviate some of the pressure on airline systems, although the FAA has confirmed that it will be preparing for the busiest Thanksgiving travel period in 15 years.
Airports are also expected to be at capacity, with over 360,000 flights scheduled during the Thanksgiving travel period. The FAA has assured that it will have ‘solid staffing’ in place to manage the expected high volume of travelers. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford expressed confidence in the agency’s ability to handle the increased traffic, noting that the safety of travelers is the top priority. “Thanks to the dedication of our air traffic controllers and every FAA employee, we are ready for the holiday rush,” Bedford said in a statement.
In addition to the expected flight delays, the FAA has also issued a warning about potential weather-related disruptions. AAA and MADD are reminding drivers that driving under the influence of alcohol makes the roads dangerous for everyone. Both organizations are urging travelers to plan ahead and seek alternative transportation if they choose to consume alcohol before driving. They are also encouraging the use of rideshare services, public transit, or designating a sober driver to ensure safe travel during the holiday.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has announced the launch of a new campaign by the Department of Transportation, known as the ‘Golden Age of Travel,’ which encourages travelers to practice civility and consideration on the roads and in the air. The campaign aims to bring back the sense of community and shared responsibility that the Department of Transportation believes has been lost in recent years. “There’s no question we’ve lost sight of what makes travel fun — the excitement, the relaxation, the cordial conversations,” the Department of Transportation stated in its campaign announcement.
Meanwhile, AAA and its partners are also working to make the holiday travel experience as smooth as possible. The organization is advising travelers to book flights and rental cars as early as possible to avoid last-minute delays. With the FAA preparing for the increased demand, travelers are being urged to plan their trips carefully and remain patient in the face of potential delays. As the nation prepares for one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel seasons in years, the focus will be on ensuring that every traveler reaches their destination safely and on time.