US Faces Busiest Thanksgiving Travel in 15 Years

The Federal Aviation Administration announced Friday that the United States is bracing for its busiest Thanksgiving travel period in 15 years, with more than 360,000 flights scheduled nationwide from Monday through the following Tuesday. This surge follows the end of the longest government shutdown on record, which had raised concerns about air traffic control staffing and safety, but officials now report stabilized operations as millions head to airports, highways and rail stations.

The nine-day holiday window, encompassing Thanksgiving on November 27, is projected to see nearly 82 million people travel at least 50 miles from home, according to the American Automobile Association. That marks an increase of about 1.3 million from last year, setting a new record. Driving remains the dominant mode, with over 73 million people expected on the roads, accounting for nearly 90 percent of trips. Air travel will involve around 6 million passengers, with the Transportation Security Administration anticipating screening more than 17.8 million individuals at checkpoints.

Tuesday, November 25, stands out as the peak day for flights, with 52,000 departures anticipated, the FAA stated. Major...