A record 30.6 million passengers are forecasted to travel on U.S. airlines during the 12-day Thanksgiving air travel period, according to industry trade organization Airlines for America (A4A).
If the projections are accurate, this year’s travel volume will be 1.6 million passengers higher than 2017, and airlines are adding 158,000 more seats daily.
“The busy holiday travel season kicks off this week, and it is thanks to incredibly accessible and affordable flight options that more travelers than ever before are visiting loved ones, wrapping up year-end business or enjoying a vacation this Thanksgiving,” John Heimlich, A4A vice president and chief economist, said. “U.S. airlines are investing heavily in their employees, products, and facilities to make air travel this holiday season enjoyable for all passengers.”
The travel period runs Nov. 16 through Nov. 27.
The three busiest days are expected to be Sunday, Nov. 25, with an estimated 3.06 million passengers, Wednesday, Nov. 21 and Friday, Nov. 16.
Thanksgiving Day is expected to be the lightest travel day, but even then, 1.73 million people are projected to fly.
During the first six months of the year, the average airline ticket price was $360. Second quarter fares were the lowest for a second quarter, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation.