U.S. Travelers Anticipate Record Labor Day Air Travel to Conclude Summer on a High Note, Reports Reuters

By Shivansh Tiwary

U.S. airlines and airports are preparing for an exceptionally busy Labor Day weekend, with a record number of travelers eager to embark on one last summer trip. This summer travel season has witnessed solid passenger volumes, overcoming challenges posed by severe weather, including unprecedented heatwaves and hurricanes.

From August 29 to September 4, the Labor Day weekend is expected to see around 17 million passengers pass through airport security, marking the busiest travel period on record, according to the Transport Security Administration (TSA). The agency forecasts an 8.5% increase in passenger traffic compared to the previous year. Since Memorial Day weekend in May, the TSA has already screened approximately 239.8 million travelers, averaging 2.7 million per day.

"Travelers are on the move more than ever this summer, and TSA, along with our airline and airport partners, is prepared to manage the busiest travel period on record as we approach this Labor Day weekend," stated TSA Administrator David Pekoske. Labor Day is particularly favored by families as it marks the last extended weekend before children in the U.S. return to school.

Booking information from AAA indicates that travel costs for the weekend have decreased by 2%. Conversely, international travel bookings have fallen by 4% compared to last year.

For those considering road trips, fuel prices are around $3.50 per gallon, with prices reported at $3.38 last week, significantly lower than the national average of $3.81 a year ago.

However, the influx of travelers is anticipated to result in increased traffic congestion. "Drivers should brace for significant traffic delays as holiday commuters join travelers on the roads," warned Bob Pishue, an analyst at a transportation data company.