Over 5,000 Flights Delayed and 200 Canceled Across the US on Christmas Eve
Approximately 8 million people are anticipated to fly between December 21 and January 1.
On Christmas Eve, numerous flights were impacted, with American Airlines reporting the majority of the disruptions.
Other major U.S. airlines facing significant delays and cancellations on Tuesday included Southwest, United, Delta, and JetBlue.
American Airlines continued to struggle with flight operations on Wednesday. Of more than 850 cancellations and delays on Christmas day, 183 were associated with the airline.
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AAA projects that “119.3 million individuals will travel at least 50 miles from home during the year-end holiday season” from December 21 to January 1.
The majority of travelers, 107 million, are expected to use roadways. The number of air travelers is predicted to increase from 7.5 million last year to 7.85 million this holiday season, which translates to a 4.7 percent rise.
Booking data analysis indicated that flight prices are 4 percent higher this holiday compared to the previous year, with the average domestic fare reaching $830.
Debbie Haas, a vice president with AAA, stated that “travelers should prepare for busier roads, airports, and cruise terminals than usual.”
Gift Packaging Guidelines and Weather
According to TSA data, more than 2 million passengers took to the skies each day last week.
“However, we highly advise travelers to use gift bags or boxes with tissue paper instead of wrapping presents with paper and tape. This will help our officers quickly resolve any alarms without the need to unwrap gifts,” he said.
Travelers can bring baked goods such as cakes, cookies, brownies, pies, and fruitcakes through security, according to TSA. However, items like maple syrup, eggnog, champagne, and preserves must be placed in checked baggage.
TSA recommends that domestic travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight, while international passengers should arrive three hours early.
Spero noted that TSA has observed “many travelers arriving at checkpoints with beverages and various knives.” Items such as “liquids, gels, aerosols, and spreads must be contained in 3.4-ounce containers in a single clear quart-sized bag for carry-ons.”
“Make sure to finish any drinks or snacks before you reach the checkpoint. Larger items like shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen, and hair gel should be checked. If traveling with a knife, ensure it is in checked luggage,” he advised.
Weather conditions may also impact travel in certain regions.
