Just be sure to exercise some patience with your carry-on luggage.
Federal officials say Thanksgiving holiday travel is expected to be the busiest in 15 years as Americans shrug off the recent government shutdown that has hobbled air travel across the country.
As of December 1, more than 360,000 flights will be taking to the skies this week, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Traffic is expected to peak on Tuesday, with more than 52,000 flights expected to transport passengers to their feast.
Flights are expected to drop to 25,611 on Thanksgiving Day before picking up after the holiday. In a chart posted on X, the U.S. Department of Transportation estimates that 16.9 million people will fly throughout the holiday week.
Los Angeles International Airport officials estimate that 2.5 million passengers will pass through the airport from Nov. 20 through Monday. Sunday is expected to be the busiest travel day, with more than 230,000 people passing through the terminal.
“Thanksgiving is one of the most important travel times at LAX, with many of our travelers connecting with loved ones or departing for the holidays,” said Courtney Moore, deputy executive director of strategy, innovation and experience at Los Angeles World Airports. “We’ve spent the year preparing to welcome our guests with a smoother experience across the airport.”
An increase in travel numbers comes just weeks after federal government shutdownwhich forced the FAA to cut air traffic nationwide to relieve pressure on air traffic controllers.
FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said in a statement that while travelers may still be upset about possible delays. press conference On Monday, they should “travel with confidence.”
“Thanks to the dedication of our air traffic controllers and every FAA employee, we are ready for the holiday rush and proud to help travelers connect with friends and family during this important time of year,” Bedford said in a statement. statement. “I am deeply grateful to our entire FAA team. Their unwavering commitment has kept the system operating safely, even during a period of record-high traffic.”
Travelers are encouraged to pack light through security and arrive at the airport early to avoid travel stress.
While the weather is warm and sunny in much of California during the holidays, weather delays Airports in some areas of the country may still be affected, including the New York area, JFK/LGA/EWR; Philadelphia, PHL; Houston, IAH/HOU; Memphis, Tennessee, MEM; and Dallas (DFW/DAL).
