This Thanksgiving, airports are bracing for a massive influx of passengers, with TSA predicting a week of unprecedented travel. The busiest day, Tuesday, is expected to see 2.8 million travelers passing through security, marking a stronger return to holiday travel compared to previous years. With a total of 18.3 million travelers expected during this busy period, airports are preparing their services to ensure safety and efficiency.
Airlines are currently navigating through significant weather challenges, which have impacted various flights across the country. LaGuardia Airport reported thousands of delays, primarily due to storms affecting both coasts. Despite the weather, airlines have maintained remarkably low cancellation rates, showcasing their operational capabilities to handle an influx of travelers amid staffing shortages and air traffic constraints.
Recent findings from a Senate subcommittee reveal that major U.S. airlines are profiting handsomely from extra fees, totaling $12.4 billion from items considered 'junk fees.' The report specifically details fees related to seat assignments and preferential seating, raising consumer awareness about the additional costs associated with flying. As travel increases during the holiday season, awareness and transparency in airline fee structures are becoming critical concerns for passengers.
As the Thanksgiving holiday approach, airports across the United States are experiencing a significant increase in passenger traffic. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has projected that more than 18.3 million people will pass through airport security in the week leading up to Thanksgiving. This marks a notable 6% increase compared to last year, reflecting a resurgence in travel as people reunite with family and friends. With the peak travel day expected to be on the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, TSA's screening numbers are set to reach around 2.8 million passengers on that day alone. In addition to the surge in travel for Thanksgiving, numerous airports, including LaGuardia in New York, have been managing challenges posed by weather conditions and staffing issues. Despite adverse weather across various regions and a number of delayed flights, overall cancellations remain low, showcasing airlines' resilience during this busy period. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently undergoing transitions in air traffic control operations, particularly concerning Newark Airport, which has been a focal point for delays due to staffing shortages. Compounding the current travel situation is a newly released Senate report that highlights the substantial revenue airlines are generating through add-on fees. According to the report, major U.S. carriers such as American Airlines, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit have collected approximately $12.4 billion through what are being termed 'junk fees' related to seat assignments and extras. As travelers prepare for the holidays, decisions regarding seating and additional fees remain important considerations, sparking discussions around airline practices and consumer rights in the travel industry.
