The recent U.S. government shutdown, which caused disruptions in air travel, remains a concern for many travelers as Thanksgiving approaches. However, experts emphasize that preparation is key to navigating the expected surge in holiday travel.
“I think the shutdown at this point is history for air travel. The airlines understand this time of year so well. They know exactly what they need to do,” said Sheldon H. Jacobson, an airport and airlines operations expert. “The real challenge is making sure travelers can help themselves.”
Travel forecasts indicate that airports, roads, and trains will be crowded during the Thanksgiving period. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has scheduled over 360,000 flights between Monday and next Tuesday, marking its busiest Thanksgiving in 15 years. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), more than 17.8 million people are expected to pass through airport security checkpoints.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy stated at a news conference that staffing levels for air traffic controllers have stabilized ahead of what he called the busiest Thanksgiving on record for travel. The head of the FAA assured passengers that they can “fly with confidence” this week.
AAA predicts that 1.3 million more people will be traveling by car compared to last year, raising the total number of road travelers to at least 73 million.
Winter weather may further complicate travel plans. The Weather Channel provides a weekly forecast highlighting major airports and highways likely to be affected by adverse conditions such as snow, ice, or rain. Travelers can use a free tool in the Weather Channel app to assess how their routes might be impacted.
On Tuesday alone, over 52,000 flights were scheduled according to the FAA; heavy rain temporarily halted operations at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport but normal service soon resumed.
Rain is anticipated in both the Pacific Northwest and much of the eastern United States this week. Airports serving Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Seattle, and Washington D.C., could experience delays due to weather conditions.
Dan DePodwin from AccuWeather warned of widespread “travel troubles” through the weekend across regions from the Rockies through the Midwest and Great Lakes areas. Heavy snowfall—up to a foot—is forecasted for parts of Michigan, Ohio, and Buffalo starting Wednesday night into Thanksgiving Day.
A larger winter storm system may develop Friday in the Rockies before moving eastward into Nebraska, Iowa, and Wisconsin on Saturday with potentially significant snowfall before weakening further east.
When packing for trips during busy periods like Thanksgiving week, Jacobson recommends checking all pockets for TSA-restricted items left from previous trips—a step that could speed up security screening when airports are crowded.
He also suggests wrapping gifts after arrival since TSA agents may need access during inspections.
James Belanger from The Weather Company advises travelers to check local “feels like” temperatures rather than relying solely on forecasts when choosing clothing—especially important for those unaccustomed to cold weather.
All domestic flyers must carry a REAL ID or another accepted form such as a passport or military ID; some states now allow digital IDs via Apple Wallet at select airports while additional details are available on TSA’s website.
For those driving instead of flying—or using it as a backup plan—AAA spokesperson Aixa Diaz recommends vehicle checks including tires and battery status before setting out with a full tank of gas early in order to avoid traffic congestion common during peak hours around Thanksgiving.
Last year AAA responded nearly 600 thousand times nationwide during this period due mainly dead batteries flat tires empty tanks
Google Maps data shows Wednesday traffic is about 14% heavier than usual between late morning and mid-afternoon with peak congestion from 1 p.m.–3 p.m.; roads are also busiest midday on Thanksgiving itself while return trips should avoid noon–3 p.m., Saturday or Sunday
Jacobson emphasizes: “…is an informed passenger,” noting that downloading airline apps helps track flight status—and checking regularly allows quick response if cancellations occur
Leaving earlier than planned can reduce stress whether caused by lingering concerns over recent disruptions or simply traveling with children or others needing extra assistance
