Airline industry officials estimate 16.5 million passengers will fly on carriers worldwide over the Labor Day travel period extending through Sept. 4.
Numbers analyzed by Airlines for America (A4A), the industry trade organization for the leading U.S. airlines, referenced the estimation represents a 3.5 percent increase from the 16 million passengers to have flown over the same holiday period last year.
“This Labor Day, airlines are enabling more passengers than ever before to take to the skies to see loved ones or visit exciting destinations because of improved accessibility for all,” John Heimlich, A4A vice president and chief economist, said.
Heimlich said 2018 has been an exceptionally busy year for air travel, with 20 of the 25 busiest days ever recorded by the Transportation Security Administration occurring so far this year.
“Record numbers of travelers are taking to the skies in large part due to widespread affordability, with inflation-adjusted fares in the first quarter of 2018 averaging 8 percent, or $30, below Q1 2010,” he said.
Industry officials said airlines are significantly reinvesting in passengers, employees, and products to enhance the travel experience. In 2017 alone, airlines spent nearly $20 billion on the customer experience, including the acquisition of 450 aircraft, new flight and ground equipment, improved facilities, and information technology.