• The AAA predicts nearly 80 million Americans will travel during Thanksgiving week, mostly by car.
• The TSA anticipates screening about 18.3 million people at airports, a six per cent increase from last year.
• Weather conditions could pose challenges for both air and road travel during the holiday period.
• Despite potential weather-related issues, the TSA is confident in managing the increased volume of travelers.

As the holiday season approaches, the United States is bracing for an unprecedented surge in travel. The American Automobile Association (AAA) has projected that nearly 80 million Americans will journey at least 50 miles from their homes between the Tuesday and the following Monday of the Thanksgiving week.

This prediction indicates a significant increase in travel, with the majority of these individuals opting to travel by car.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is also preparing for a busy week ahead. The agency anticipates screening approximately 18.3 million people at airports across the country during the same seven-day period. This figure represents a six per cent increase compared to the corresponding days in the previous year, aligning with the pattern observed throughout 2024.

The TSA is expecting a particularly busy day on Sunday, with an estimated three million people passing through airport security checkpoints. This number could potentially surpass the record of 3.01 million set on the Sunday following the July Fourth holiday.

Air Travel Peaks Amid Thanksgiving Rush

TSA Administrator David Pekoske addressed the anticipated surge in air travel, stating, This will be the busiest Thanksgiving ever in terms of air travel. He further assured that the agency is prepared to handle the influx, adding, Fortunately, our staffing is also at the highest levels that they have ever been. We are ready.

However, the weather could pose challenges for both air and road travel. The report highlighted that wintry weather is always a wild card for Thanksgiving and Christmas travel by plane and automobile. Forecasters have predicted more rain in California, while the Midwest and Great Lakes regions are expected to experience rain and snow on Monday. The Northeast, on the other hand, is likely to face wet and blustery conditions by Thursday and Friday.

Historical Context and Weather Challenges

This anticipated surge in Thanksgiving travel is reminiscent of similar events in the past. For instance, in 2019, AAA had predicted that 55 million Americans would travel 50 miles or more from home during the Thanksgiving week, marking the second-highest Thanksgiving travel volume since AAA began tracking in 2000.

The highest record was set in 2005, with 58.6 million travelers. However, this year's prediction significantly surpasses previous records, indicating a strong desire among Americans to reconnect with family and friends after enduring the challenges posed by the pandemic.