Thanksgiving Travel Soars: 17.8M Flying as Upstate NY Airports Brace

UPDATE: This Thanksgiving is set to be the busiest travel period in over 15 years, with more than 17.8 million passengers expected to take to the skies, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). With flight restrictions recently lifted, airports in upstate New York are preparing for a surge in travelers, particularly at the Albany International Airport.

Airport officials report that today, Wednesday, and Sunday are projected to be the heaviest travel days of the season. According to Matt Hunter, director of communications at Albany International Airport, “Over 5,000 passengers are expected to depart each day, with similar numbers arriving.”

Travelers like Jason Frazier and his children, AJ and MJ, are among those navigating the busy skies. “I wanted to fly out a day earlier, but flights were full. We’re leaving Saturday instead of Sunday due to school schedules,” Frazier said. “I don’t want to risk delays coming back from Fort Worth.”

On the highways, the American Automobile Association (AAA) predicts that at least 73 million drivers will be on the move, marking a rise of 1.3 million from last year. Travelers like Gina Martino Trubites are opting to drive, heading to the nation’s capital. “It’s a nice drive, taking about seven and a half to eight hours. Dealing with airport chaos this time of year is just too much,” she shared.

Families are making similar choices. Tiffany Riefstahl, a self-proclaimed “passenger princess,” plans to entertain her kids during the trip to Massachusetts and Connecticut. “I’d prefer hosting at home, but since we moved away, it makes more sense to travel where everyone else is,” Riefstahl explained.

Experts urge travelers to remain vigilant, whether flying or driving. They recommend allowing extra time for delays, planning routes carefully, and staying updated on weather conditions as the holiday rush approaches.

With travel numbers soaring and airports gearing up for the influx, staying informed and prepared is crucial for a smooth Thanksgiving journey.