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People across the country are packing their bags and preparing for the daunting holiday travel season. The FAA predicts the heaviest traffic on the Thursday before Christmas and gives holiday travelers some tips to get through the busy season.
The FAA reported that holiday travel for Christmas week will peak on Thursday, Dec. 21 with 48,959 flights. The next highest day is Dec. 22, with 43,953 flights. Following Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Dec. 26 will have a reported 41,028 flights.
The FAA said that despite an increase in flights for 2023, the number of delays and cancellations remains lower than the pre-pandemic numbers. While the number of delays and cancellations is low, the FAA reminds travelers to check the status of their flight before heading to the airport. According to the FAA, 71.9 percent of total delay minutes are due to the weather, 16.5 percent due to volume, 7.2 percent due to runway, 2 percent due to equipment and 2.4 percent due to other/staffing. With weather being the most unavoidable factor, be sure to check the forecast before you head out.
The FAA reminds travelers - be patient, give yourself extra time at the airport and pack safely this holiday season.
Be patient: It is against federal law to interfere with an aircraft, physically assaulting or threatening to physically assault the crew or any other passenger on an aircraft. Be sure to follow all instructions given by the crewmembers. Failing to do so can result in criminal fines, civil penalties and imprisonment. The FAA has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to unruly behavior.
Pay attention: With the hustle and bustle of the busy holiday season, pay extra close attention to what you are packing in your bag. The FAA reminds travelers that some common toiletries are considered hazardous. Check your bags for aerosol cans containing, hairspray, deodorant, tanning spray, animal repellant, nail polish, paints and glues. If you are unsure, take the extra bit of caution to stay safe this holiday season.
To check or not to check: Items like e-cigarettes, vaping devices and spare lithium batteries are not authorized to be packed into your checked luggage. Items like spare lithium batteries, found in many personal electronic devices and backup charging devices, must be in your carry-on baggage. Electronic devices powered by lithium batteries can catch fire if damaged or exposed to electrical terminals. The FAA recommends passengers keep cellphones and other devices in the cabin to quickly access them if needed.
Air travel can allow people to spend the holiday season with loved ones all over the country or world. Be safe when you pack, be kind and courteous when you travel and pay attention to your surroundings and personal items. The airport can be a hectic place around the holidays, do your part to not add to the chaos this year.