U.S. Airlines Expecting Record Breaking Thanksgiving Travel Season

U.S. airlines anticipate an unprecedented surge in passenger volume this Thanksgiving holiday, with Airlines for America (A4A) projecting over 31 million travelers will take to the skies. This forecast, spanning November 21 through December 1, 2025, marks an all-time high for the holiday period, translating to an average of 2.8 million passengers daily. To accommodate this robust demand, U.S. carriers are bolstering capacity, offering 45,000 more seats per day compared to the previous year. The busiest travel days are expected to be Sunday, November 30, and Monday, December 1.

Industry leaders are actively preparing for the record influx. Chris Sununu, President and CEO of A4A, emphasized the extensive efforts by member airlines to ensure readiness for the peak travel season. Sununu advised passengers to allocate ample travel time, exercise patience, and maintain courtesy, acknowledging the anticipated congestion at airports nationwide.

Beyond operational preparations, A4A has issued a critical appeal to the U.S. Congress. Following a recent government shutdown, the association urges lawmakers to establish a legislative solution that guarantees compensation for essential aviation personnel, including air traffic controllers, TSA officers, and CBP agents, during future federal funding impasses. This measure aims to safeguard operational stability and the safety and security of U.S. airspace, preventing aviation workers and the traveling public from being adversely affected by political disputes.

Airlines for America serves as the primary trade association for leading U.S. passenger and cargo airlines, playing a pivotal role in advocating for industry priorities. Its membership includes major carriers such as Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue Airways, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Atlas Air, FedEx, and UPS, collectively representing a significant portion of the nation's air travel and cargo operations.