According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), this summer is seeing a record number of Americans traveling. On Sunday, a total of 2.99 million travelers passed through TSA checkpoints, making it the busiest day ever. The TSA expects to screen over 32 million travelers during the July 4 holiday period, with Friday, June 28, anticipated to be the busiest day. TSA Administrator David Pekoske stated that they are prepared to handle the surge in passenger volumes, and that the increase in travel is a positive indication of a thriving economy.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is anticipating a 5.4 percent rise in travel volume this July 4 compared to last year. This follows a record-breaking Memorial Day weekend, during which one day saw over 2.95 million passengers.
Remarkably, seven out of the top ten busiest travel days ever recorded took place within the past month.
To handle the surge in travelers, the TSA has ramped up recruitment efforts and reduced attrition rates by nearly 50 percent, according to Pekoske.
To avoid any inconveniences during the July 4 holiday, the TSA advises travelers to arrive at the airport early. Most airlines recommend arriving two hours prior to a domestic flight and three hours prior to an international flight. Additionally, travelers should ensure their carry-on bags are packed correctly, with no liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces, to avoid delays.
Travelers who have TSA PreCheck can enjoy expedited security screening as they are not required to remove shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops, or liquids from their carry-on bags. Additionally, children aged 12 and below can accompany their enrolled parents or guardians through the PreCheck lane. In 2020, the program expanded to allow teenagers aged 13 to 17, who are traveling on the same reservation and have the TSA PreCheck mark on their boarding pass, to also access the PreCheck lane.