Thanksgiving Travel Set to Break Records with Over 18 Million Expected to Fly

As Thanksgiving approaches, many travelers are gearing up for a busy holiday by planning getaways for Thanksgiving break. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen a staggering 2.9 million people on Wednesday and over 3 million on Sunday when many are returning home after the festivities.

Air travel has started off smoothly. By Wednesday afternoon, fewer than 50 flights were canceled. However, some delays continued, with over 2,000 flights behind schedule. Delays have been common lately, with more than 4,500 flights delayed per day since last weekend. Still, passengers are staying positive, embracing the holiday spirit, and reuniting with loved ones.

For those flying, it's all about preparation and staying calm. Sean Spainhower, a passenger from Morrison, Colorado, shared some wise advice as he waited for his flight at Denver airport: "Let them be in a rush. Let them do their thing. You're prepared," he said. His reminder to remain relaxed and enjoy the experience is exactly the kind of mindset travelers need to handle the busy season with ease.

Joan Fischer, who flew from Newark, New Jersey, to Chicago with her husband, was delighted by the smooth process. "We flew out of Newark — an airport notorious for delays — and you wouldn't know it was a holiday," she said. "It was well run, and it was really not busy." Stories like these show that, despite the crowds, travel can still be a pleasant experience with the right attitude.

Weather conditions will add a bit of variety to the travel mix this year. While much of the West will enjoy clear skies, parts of the Midwest and East Coast could see some snow and rain. However, this is nothing to fear — the weather will just add a bit of holiday magic to the season, and travelers are prepared for it.

AAA estimates that nearly 80 million Americans will be traveling this week, with most of them hitting the road. While airfare prices are slightly higher than last year, travelers are still eager to take to the skies and reunite with family.

Overall, the Thanksgiving travel period is shaping up to be one of connection and celebration. With more than 18 million people expected to fly, the busiest day will likely be Sunday, when passengers will return home after a joyful holiday. Despite the crowds, there's an overall sense of excitement as people come together to share in the season's spirit.