Holiday Travel in the U.S. Expected to Reach Record Numbers
Holiday Travel in the U.S. Expected to Reach Record Numbers
As the holiday season approaches, the U.S. is gearing up for a record-breaking number of travelers hitting the roads and skies. According to the auto club AAA, more than 119 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Saturday and New Year’s Day, surpassing the previous high set in 2019.
Airlines for America also predicts record travel numbers, with U.S. airlines expected to carry 54 million passengers during a 19-day period starting Thursday and ending on Monday, January 6. This represents a 6% increase from last year.
The busiest travel days are expected to be Friday and Sunday, as well as December 26, 27, and 29, with lighter traffic on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The Transportation Security Administration anticipates screening 40 million passengers over the holidays and through January 2.
While gasoline prices remain similar to last year, transportation data firm INRIX warns that travel times on highways could be up to 30% longer than normal, with Sunday expected to see the heaviest traffic. Major metropolitan areas like Boston, New York City, Seattle, and Washington, D.C., are primed for the greatest delays.
With the potential for winter storms or other disruptions, airlines are preparing for the influx of travelers. It will be the first holiday season since a Transportation Department rule took effect requiring airlines to provide automatic cash refunds for canceled or significantly delayed flights.
Despite the potential challenges, AAA advises travelers to continue with their holiday plans, even in the event of a government shutdown. Planning ahead for 2025, travelers are encouraged to start thinking about future trips in the new year.
As holiday travel reaches new heights, it’s essential for travelers to stay informed and prepared for any potential disruptions during this busy season.
