If you’re planning to fly over Thanksgiving, especially on American Airlines, you might want to pack a little extra patience. The airline is preparing for its busiest single day of flying since the pandemic and millions of travelers will be heading to airports across the country.
According to FOX 4 News, American Airlines and its regional partners expect to carry more than 8 million passengers on nearly 85,000 flights between November 19 and December 1.
The busiest day is expected to be Sunday, November 29, when American plans to operate an astonishing 7,021 flights. That’s the equivalent of one takeoff every 13 seconds.
But here’s the statistic that really caught my attention: At 11 a.m. Central Time on November 20, November 29 and November 30, American expects to have approximately 1,130 flights in the air simultaneously.
And guess what? My family and I are scheduled to be flying on American Airlines on November 29 at that exact time! So we’ll be right in the thick of it. Hopefully, everything will go smoothly, but after decades of flying, I know better than to take anything for granted during the holidays.
How to prepare for one of the busiest travel days of the year
American Airlines says it’s ready for the Thanksgiving rush, but that doesn’t mean travelers shouldn’t take a few precautions. Here are some of my best tips for making holiday travel less stressful.
1. Get to the airport earlier than usual
I always recommend arriving at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight. During Thanksgiving, consider adding extra time, especially if you’re checking bags, parking at the airport or traveling with young children.
2. Check in online and download your airline’s app
Don’t wait until you get to the airport to check in. The American Airlines app can provide boarding passes, gate information and flight updates. Make sure notifications are turned on so you know about changes as soon as possible.
3. Use TSA PreCheck or Touchless ID if you’re eligible
These programs can make a huge difference when airport security lines are long. I’ve recently been using TSA PreCheck Touchless ID and it’s been a game changer at participating airports. Here’s how to sign up for TSA PreCheck Touchless ID.
4. Avoid checking a bag if possible
With so many passengers traveling, baggage counters and claim areas could be especially crowded. I prefer to travel with carry-on luggage whenever possible. Just make sure your bag meets the airline’s size requirements.
5. Pack snacks, medications and essentials in your carry-on
Don’t assume you’ll have time to grab food at the airport or that everything will go according to plan. Bring snacks, a refillable water bottle, charging cables, a portable charger and any medications you might need. If you’re traveling with children, pack extra clothes and entertainment, too.
6. Keep an eye on the weather
Thanksgiving falls at a time of year when snowstorms, strong winds and other weather problems can disrupt flights. Even if the weather is beautiful where you’re departing, a storm at your destination or somewhere else in the airline’s network could affect your flight.
7. Know your backup options
If your flight gets delayed or canceled, don’t just stand in line at the customer service desk. Open the airline’s app and look for rebooking options while you’re waiting. It also helps to know which alternative flights might get you to your destination.
8. Be kind to airline employees
Flight attendants, gate agents, pilots and baggage handlers will be working incredibly hard while many of us are enjoying time with family. A little patience and kindness can go a long way.
We’re going to be part of the Thanksgiving travel rush
American Airlines Chief Operating Officer David Seymour says the airline is focused on delivering a safe and reliable operation so passengers can spend more time enjoying the holidays and less time worrying about travel.
I certainly hope he’s right because my family and I will be among the millions of travelers putting that preparation to the test.
We’re scheduled to be in the air at the exact time American expects to have 1,130 flights operating simultaneously. That’s a pretty remarkable statistic and one I’ll be thinking about when we take off.
My advice? Prepare for the worst, hope for the best and remember that getting to spend Thanksgiving with family and friends is what really matters.
And if you’re flying on November 29, maybe I’ll see you at the airport!
