Summary
High Airport Traffic Expected
More than 14 million passengers are anticipated to travel through airports across the United States during the Labor Day holiday weekend, with Friday projected to be the busiest travel day.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen an exceptionally high volume of travelers from Friday, Sept. 1, through Wednesday, Sept. 6, following a record-breaking summer. On that Friday alone, the TSA estimates over 2.7 million travelers will navigate security checkpoints.
Furthermore, TSA Administrator David Pekoske remarked that traveler numbers are expected to be nearly 11 percent higher than the same period last year, surpassing 2019 figures as well.
“We are fully prepared for the increase in travel volumes and are collaborating closely with our airline and airport partners to ensure that we maintain our wait time standards—30 minutes or less for standard screening lanes and 10 minutes or less for TSA PreCheck lanes,” Pekoske stated. “However, there may be instances where wait times exceed these standards, so we encourage travelers to arrive early, exercise patience, and reach out to us prior to arriving at the airport if you have questions regarding security procedures or permissible items.”
TSA PreCheck Benefits
To streamline the airport experience, taking a few proactive measures can greatly benefit travelers. First and foremost, giving yourself plenty of time is crucial, especially given the likelihood of long lines during peak travel times. Most airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before a domestic flight and three hours before an international flight, as international flights often board earlier.
Moreover, travelers with the TSA PreCheck benefit from expedited security processing. This program allows them to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on, as well as leave laptops and liquids in their bags, significantly reducing overall wait times.
Travel Tips for Smooth Airport Experience
Consequently, it is essential for travelers to familiarize themselves with security regulations regarding what items can and cannot be brought through checkpoints. The TSA provides an online “What Can I Bring?” tool for inquiries. Additionally, travelers can contact the TSA by tweeting “@AskTSA” or messaging on Facebook for real-time assistance available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET.
Furthermore, the TSA has been advancing technology at checkpoints, including Credential Authentication Technology (CAT), which simplifies the screening process by allowing many travelers to get through security without needing to present a boarding pass or, in some cases, even a physical ID.
