U.S. Airports Are Predicted To Be Busier Than Ever This Summer
Air travel offers an element speed and convenience that once seemed impossible, but it’s not without its fair share of setbacks. After all, there’s nothing worse than spending countless hours in a terminal following a flight delay or standing in line behind frustrated fellow travelers. If you’re a frequent flyer, you might not like a recent report from the Transportation Security Administration that predicts extra-hectic crowds throughout American airports in summer 2019.
The summer travel season kicks off during Memorial Day weekend and continues through Labor Day in September. Throughout these popular vacation months, it’s no secret that airport crowds typically increase in size, but 2019 travel numbers are expected to reach new heights. In fact, the TSA predicts that this summer will see an additional 10 million air travelers in the United States as compared to 2018.
What’s the reason behind this spike? TSA officials point to extended destination offerings from multiple airlines and solid economic standings for many Americans. With additional disposable income and continuing access to new parts of the country, it’s easy to see why travelers are booking flights on a regular basis. Throughout the summer months in 2018, more than 250 million passengers traveled via air in the United States, and this figure will surely jump in 2019.
So, what do these enhanced numbers mean for you and your family this summer? With the promise of larger crowds and longer lines, you might choose to allow some extra time when planning airport arrivals. After all, it’s always better to arrive early than to find yourself sprinting to your gate after a delayed trip through security. The burden is certainly on airlines to smoothly accommodate new flight routes and additional passengers - but this predicted increase might just leave you opting to drive instead of fly.
Have you experienced extreme crowds during your past air travel experiences? Do you mind waiting a bit longer in order to enjoy an incredible summer vacation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
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