The Busiest Days to Fly This Holiday Season: What You Need to Know

The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes the busiest travel period of the year. The TSA expects to screen nearly 40 million travelers at airport security checkpoints between 19 Dec 2024, and 2 Jan 2025, marking a 6% increase from last year. If you’re flying during this time, preparation is key to avoiding unnecessary stress.

Navigating the busiest days during the holiday

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Expect peak congestion at airports on Friday, 20 Dec 2024; Friday, 27 Dec 2024; and Monday, 30 Dec 2024. American Airlines, anticipating 12.7 million passengers during the holiday period, projects 27 Dec 2024 as its busiest day. Travelers flying these dates should brace for delays and cancellations, especially at major hubs like Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth, and Denver—each handling over 1.3 million scheduled departing seats.

Winter weather often compounds the challenges of holiday travel, with 63% of delays caused by adverse conditions. This year, a snowstorm on 27 Dec 2024 is forecasted to impact 18 states across the Upper Midwest, Great Lakes, and Northeast. To stay ahead of weather disruptions, check the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Forecast Map three days before your flight. On travel day, use tools like FlightAware to track your plane and receive early alerts for delays or cancellations.

Morning flights, particularly those departing between 5am and 8am, are less likely to be delayed than later departures. Flights after 9am face twice the likelihood of delays, compounded by a domino effect from earlier disruptions. Additionally, most airports experience their highest passenger volumes between 8am and 12pm, so arriving early is essential.

Tips for Streamlining Your Airport Experience

To avoid being the bottleneck at security, leave gifts unwrapped. TSA recommends using gift bags or boxes instead of wrapping paper and tape. This allows officers to quickly inspect items if alarms are triggered.

The holiday travel season requires patience and planning. By choosing early flights, monitoring weather forecasts, and preparing for crowded airports, you can minimize stress and make your journey as smooth as possible. Remember, staying informed and flexible is the best way to ensure a happy holiday season, no matter where your travels take you.

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