Labor Day weekend travel rush: Busiest times to drive and fly in Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. —
Labor Day weekend travel is in full swing, and Orlando is predicted to be one of the most popular destinations.
This year’s Labor Day travel period will run from Thursday, Sep. 3 through Tuesday, Sep. 8, according to Orlando International Airport.
During that period, MCO predicts that 841,577 passengers will arrive and depart.
The busiest day is expected to be Monday, Sep. 7, with 155,776 passengers arriving and departing.
Labor Day 2026 projections
Orlando International Airport (MCO)
Amid these numbers, the Labor Day travel period is expected to see fewer passengers than last year.
In 2025, MCO recorded 450,060 departures, whereas this year the total is expected to reach 420,493.
Among the popular Labor Day destinations for air travel are Seattle, Boston, Denver and New York City.
For those traveling by car, AAA said Friday will be the busiest day on the roads, with regular commuters adding to the congestion.
The worst times to drive are expected to be from noon to 8 p.m. on Friday, 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, and 2 to 5 p.m. on Monday.