The Thanksgiving travel season is officially underway, with projections indicating it could be one of the busiest periods in recent years. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), more than 81 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home over the holiday, with approximately 73 million choosing to drive. Buffalo Niagara International Airport is already seeing an influx of travelers, although the anticipated surge had not fully materialized as of Saturday evening.
Travelers at the airport reported a calm atmosphere, with minimal delays and short security lines. Ethan Mcnish-Heider, a student from Niagara University, expressed relief, stating, “It seems pretty normal, like when I flew home for Christmas. Nothing crazy going on, to be honest.” Many passengers appear to have planned their trips with care, arriving early to avoid potential crowds.
Another traveler, Simman Mangat, mentioned his decision to arrive three hours prior to his flight. “I was worried that it was going to be busier, but I was pleasantly surprised to see that it’s not that crazy,” he said. This level of preparation reflects a broader concern among travelers given the recent disruptions caused by the federal government shutdown.
Amid these concerns, Carol Foster noted her decision to wait until Tuesday to purchase her ticket. “I was worried that I’d get to fly on time, especially with this being the busiest time of the year,” she said. Fortunately, with the government now reopened and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) lifting all restrictions, airlines have returned to normal operations.
Looking ahead, the FAA has issued warnings that Tuesday, November 28, 2023, could become one of the busiest travel days in the past 15 years. As travelers prepare for their journeys, the combination of high demand and the return of normal operations could lead to significant congestion at airports nationwide.
As the Thanksgiving holiday approaches, millions are expected to take to the skies and roads, marking a significant return to pre-pandemic travel patterns. With ongoing monitoring of travel conditions and passenger needs, airports like Buffalo Niagara remain focused on ensuring a smooth travel experience for all.