UPDATE: A staggering 82 million people are projected to travel at least 50 miles this Thanksgiving, marking potentially the busiest holiday week in U.S. history. With a surge of 1.6 million additional travelers compared to last year, crowded airports and congested highways are expected as millions head out for the festive season.
The top destination this year is Orlando, according to data from AAA. The city is anticipated to attract a massive influx of visitors, with 1.9 million passengers expected at Orlando International Airport (OIA) between November 21 and December 2. This airport ranks as the ninth busiest in the nation, and airport officials are bracing for record foot traffic.
As travel rebounds post-government shutdown, more than 6 million travelers will take to the skies, with approximately half flying on **Sunday** alone, as reported by aviation analytics firm Cirium. “Orlando is usually one of the nation’s hottest travel destinations for the holiday season, and Orlando International Airport is ready,” said Lance Lyttle, CEO of the Orlando Aviation Authority.
Sunday is projected to be the busiest day at OIA, with over 177,400 passengers forecasted to pass through its gates. Following closely, Saturday is expected to see 175,855 fliers navigating the airport.
On the ground, AAA estimates that at least 73 million people will take to the roads, an increase of 1.3 million drivers compared to last Thanksgiving. This number could rise as air travelers facing potential flight cancellations may switch to driving. Orlando ranks among the top five U.S. markets for car rentals, with domestic rates 15% cheaper than last year.
Travel experts recommend leaving early, particularly on **Wednesday** and **Sunday**, when peak travel times are expected between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m.. As of Tuesday, gas prices in Orlando averaged $3.16 per gallon, slightly higher than the statewide average of $3.08, according to GasBuddy.
In addition, around 2.5 million travelers are opting for trains and buses, as indicated by AAA.
Weather-wise, visitors to Orlando can anticipate pleasant conditions on **Wednesday**, with highs in the mid-80s before a cold front sweeps in on Thanksgiving Day, bringing temperatures down to the low 70s and even chillier conditions on **Friday**. Morning lows are expected to drop to a brisk 46 degrees.
For travelers flying out of OIA, it is highly advised to arrive at the check-in counter at least three hours in advance, be at the TSA-security checkpoint two hours before departure, and reach the gate one hour prior to boarding. The airport’s Orlando MCO app provides real-time updates on parking availability and TSA wait times.
For those picking up passengers, avoid parking on the shoulder of airport roadways; instead, utilize the available cellphone lots for free parking.
As travel ramps up this holiday season, the urgency for preparation cannot be overstated. With record numbers on the move, the Thanksgiving week promises to be a bustling time for both travelers and the hospitality industry. Stay tuned for more updates as the holiday approaches.
