An estimated 45.7 million Americans will fly on U.S. airlines over the 18-day winter holiday travel period, according to Airlines for America (A4A), a 5.2 percent increase from 2017.
Airlines will add 143,000 more seats daily to accommodate the influx of travelers.
“With airfares at historic lows, travelers are choosing to fly on U.S. airlines in record numbers, especially during the busy holiday season,” A4A Vice President and Chief Economist John Heimlich said. “Increased consumer choices and fares that match nearly every budget have enabled a record number of people take to the skies to visit loved ones, conduct business or enjoy a holiday getaway.”
The holiday travel period is Dec. 20, through Jan. 6. The heaviest travel days are expected to be Dec. 21, 20 and 26, and the lightest travel days are expected to be Dec. 24-25 and Jan. 5.
Airlines will be working closely with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to make passengers more secure. Airlines have been investing in screening technologies and biometrics while also encouraging passengers to enroll in trusted traveler programs.
Airlines also are partnering with airports to enhance the customer experience. Over the past decade, airline-airport partnerships have led to $130 billion in capital improvements.