DALLAS — The year's busiest travel season is here, and US airports are expecting record-breaking passenger numbers for the coming weeks.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) anticipates screening more than 39 million travelers across the country from December 19 to January 6. This surge represents a significant increase compared to previous years, with some airports projecting up to 16% growth in daily traffic.
The busiest airport in the world, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (ATL) is ready to welcome 3.7 million travelers from Friday, December 20, through Sunday, January 5. with an expected peak on Friday, December 27, with 327,724 passengers.
To enhance the traveling experience, ATL recently introduced "18 real-time passenger information totems throughout the pre-security areas that display expected wait times at security checkpoints."
US Hubs with Highest Surge
Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport (FLL) is projected to lead among major airport hubs this December 2024 with a remarkable 16.3% increase. Following closely is Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), the largest airport in Hawaii, with a 12.7% increase, and Tampa International Airport (TPA) with a 12.2% rise.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is expected to rank fourth with a surge of 11.9%, followed by Orlando International Airport (MCO) at 11.4%. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) is anticipated to see a 10.8% increase, while both Miami International Airport (MIA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) are projected to record identical growth rates of 10.7%.
Finally, Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is forecasted to post a solid gain of 9.2%, and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is predicted to round out the list with a growth of 9.0%.
To manage this unprecedented volume, airports and airlines are implementing various measures, including infrastructure improvements, enhanced customer service, and the use of new TSA technologies.
Key Projections
- Overall increase: Houston Airports expect a 7% rise in holiday travel compared to 2023
- Total passengers: Approximately 3.4 million at Houston airports alone
- Large US hubs: TSA expects a 7.2% increase in daily traffic
- Medium hub airports: Projected 6.2% increase
- Smaller airports: Anticipated 4.5% increase
Travelers are advised to plan ahead, arrive early, at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international ones, and consider enrolling in TSA Precheck for a smoother airport experience during this busy holiday season.
With projections highlighting significant upward trends across key transportation hubs, we remind everyone to stay alert to suspicious activities and to remember that if you see something, say something.
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