As predictably as a dry turkey at the dinner table, Thanksgiving week is set to bring packed airports and congested highways across the United States.
Officials from the U.S. transportation secretary to airline executives promise they’re ready to handle the holiday rush, but weather, staffing, and sheer numbers may still lead to delays.
Record-Breaking Air Travel Expected
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening a staggering 18.3 million passengers this Thanksgiving week, a 6% increase from last year. With projections pointing to Sunday as the busiest day, potentially breaking the all-time record of 3.01 million screened passengers, travelers are being urged to pack patience.
“This will be the busiest Thanksgiving ever in terms of air travel,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. He assured travelers that security lines would be kept under control, with general lines averaging under 30 minutes and PreCheck lines under 10 minutes.
Road Trips on the Rise
AAA estimates that nearly 80 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from home this week, with the vast majority opting for road trips. Drivers will get some relief at the pump, with gas prices averaging $3.06 per gallon, down from $3.26 last year. However, heavy traffic in metropolitan hubs like New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., could more than double normal commute times.
Ongoing Challenges in the Skies
While U.S. flights ran relatively smoothly on Monday—with fewer than 40 cancellations and 1,600 delays—ongoing issues could create turbulence for travelers. A shortage of air traffic controllers remains a critical concern, with FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker warning that traffic could be slowed to maintain safety.
“We’ll take special measures if staffing is tight,” Whitaker said, noting similar delays in high-traffic areas like New York and Florida in recent years.
Weather Wild Cards
Storms in California and wintry weather in the Midwest and Great Lakes regions could complicate plans further, while wet and blustery conditions are forecasted for the Northeast later this week.
When to Travel
Transportation experts advise avoiding peak travel times to dodge gridlock. Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons will be the worst for drivers, but Thanksgiving Day itself should see smoother roads. On the return trip, aim to travel before 1 p.m. on Sunday or early morning or late evening on Monday.
Airport Strike and Safety Tips
In Charlotte, North Carolina, airport workers staged a 24-hour strike over wages, causing minor delays. Meanwhile, TSA reminds passengers to double-check baggage rules, avoid packing lithium-ion batteries in checked luggage, and leave firearms at home—more than 6,000 loaded guns have been intercepted at checkpoints this year.
A New Travel Rhythm
Post-pandemic habits and remote work have reshaped holiday travel patterns. Many travelers are spreading out their journeys, working remotely before or after Thanksgiving, which has shifted congestion to previously quieter days.
As holiday travel ramps up, travelers are urged to plan ahead, remain flexible, and follow official guidance to ensure a smoother journey.
