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Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Joins Orlando International, Seattle‑Tacoma, Chicago O’Hare, Boston Logan and More US Airports to Record High Passenger Traffic in Christmas and New Year Holiday Season from Dec. 19 to January 4, 2026, Now American Tourism Economy is Riding Escalator
Published on
December 25, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, along with Orlando International, Seattle-Tacoma, Chicago O’Hare, Boston Logan, and more US international airports, is set to record high passenger traffic during the 2025 Christmas and New Year holiday season.
From December 19 to January 4, 2026, these key airports are preparing for a surge in holiday travellers, as the American tourism economy continues its upward momentum. The holiday travel season is expected to witness a remarkable increase in passenger numbers, further solidifying the role of these major airports as vital hubs in the global aviation network.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta, consistently the busiest U.S. airport, will see an influx of passengers, while Orlando International and Seattle-Tacoma are also bracing for record-breaking numbers. Chicago O’Hare and Boston Logan are witnessing similar trends, confirming the rebound of the American tourism economy after years of disruption.
As air travel demand surges, these airports are strategically preparing for the busiest travel days, ensuring smooth operations during the peak period. The American tourism economy is clearly riding an escalator of growth, as travellers flock to explore the country or reunite with loved ones this holiday season. Keep reading to find out more about this exciting travel boom.
The Unstoppable Surge of 2025 Holiday Travel in US Airports
The winter holiday travel season of 2025 is gearing up to be the busiest ever for US airports. With millions of Americans taking to the skies to celebrate Christmas and New Year, airport terminals are expected to be packed with passengers. According to official forecasts from TSA and AAA, over 52 million passengers will be flying in the U.S. between December 19 and January 5. This marks a record-breaking surge, which will put even the largest hubs like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to the test.
Why is this year so special? The aviation industry is recovering faster than expected, and airports across the U.S. are seeing passenger volumes not seen since pre-pandemic days. But there’s a catch: the sheer volume of passengers means longer wait times, delays, and packed terminals. In this article, we break down what you need to know to navigate the holiday travel chaos, from busiest airports, to peak travel dates, and how to manage potential delays. Let’s dive into the data and see which airports are leading the charge.
AirportProjected Holiday PassengersPeak Travel DatesNotesOrlando International (MCO)~3.1MJan 3 peakHigh leisure traffic from theme parks (Seattle‑Tacoma (SEA)~2.5MDec 23 highest dailyDual peaks around Christmas Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta (ATL)MillionsDec 19–28Continues busiest hub traditionDallas/Fort Worth (DFW)MillionsHoliday peakMajor American Airlines hub Chicago O’Hare (ORD)MillionsHoliday periodStrong domestic & international flow Newark Liberty (EWR)MillionsHoliday periodNew York area hub traffic Boston Logan (BOS)HighHoliday periodStrong East Coast flows Reagan Washington (DCA)ModerateHoliday periodDense regional connections
Holiday Travel Rush at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport: A Busy Season for Travelers
The holiday travel rush is in full swing, and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) is feeling the pressure as millions of Americans head to their destinations. With heavy crowds and packed terminals, ATL, one of the busiest airports in the world, has experienced a noticeable surge in passenger traffic as we approach the peak of the holiday season. The good news? Despite the increased volume, travelers are generally finding their way through security with relative ease — at least for now.
Passenger Traffic Increases: ATL Anticipates a Record-Breaking Holiday Season
This year, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is set to handle approximately 5.3 million travelers between Dec. 19 and Jan. 4, marking a significant increase from last year’s holiday traffic. Airport officials are bracing for this influx, with the busiest day of the season projected to be Friday, when more than 348,000 passengers are expected to pass through the airport’s terminals. The surge in passenger numbers is a clear indicator that people are eager to reunite with loved ones, travel for vacation, and return to normalcy as the holidays approach.
ATL officials are working tirelessly to manage this spike in travel, ensuring that passengers can move through the airport as smoothly as possible despite the challenges presented by high volumes.
Security Wait Times and Terminal Crowds: Managing the Rush
While the early morning hours saw some heavy congestion, Hartsfield-Jackson has been able to maintain a steady flow of passengers. According to reports, security wait times peaked at about 21 minutes at the North Checkpoint around 4:30 a.m., but these wait times eased quickly as more security lanes were opened. Travelers have also been encouraged to arrive well ahead of their scheduled departure times, which has helped reduce stress during the busy period.
Despite the increased number of passengers, airport officials have stated that the flow of passengers through security checkpoints is manageable, with lines continuing to move steadily. It’s clear that planning ahead and arriving early — especially during peak travel hours — is one of the best ways to alleviate the strain of the holiday travel rush.
Weather Delays: Monitoring Northeast and Western Conditions
As with any busy travel period, weather conditions have been a concern. Airport officials are closely monitoring weather patterns in the Northeast and Western United States, as poor conditions can have a ripple effect on flights coming in and out of Atlanta. Snowstorms, rain, and cold fronts can cause delays and cancellations, especially during such a high-traffic time. While weather delays have been minimal so far, officials are urging passengers to remain vigilant about potential disruptions.
Travelers are advised to check flight statuses before heading to the airport to stay updated on any potential delays or cancellations. The unpredictability of weather means that even a slight storm could lead to a cascade of delays, making early preparation key.
Advice for Travelers: Stay Calm and Be Prepared for Delays
As the holiday travel rush continues, travelers are encouraged to take several proactive steps to make their journeys as smooth as possible. Airport officials suggest arriving at least two hours early for domestic flights to allow enough time for security checks, any possible delays, and navigating through busy terminals. Additionally, keeping an eye on flight statuses before heading to the airport can help alleviate any surprises or stress.
While waiting at the airport, many travelers have shared that arriving extra early and preparing for possible delays has helped them reduce anxiety. With crowded terminals and high passenger traffic, it’s easy to see why starting the journey with a calm mindset is essential.
AirportProjected Passengers (Holiday)Busiest DatesExpected DelaysNotesHartsfield-Jackson (ATL)5.3MDec. 19, Dec. 28ModerateMajor hub for domestic travelLos Angeles (LAX)3.7MDec. 20, Dec. 27LowHigh international trafficNew York JFK (JFK)3.0MDec. 22, Dec. 28ModerateKey international gatewayOrlando MCO3.1MDec. 26, Jan. 2HighHigh leisure travel from theme parksSeattle-Tacoma (SEA)2.5MDec. 23, Dec. 26ModeratePeak travel to/from AsiaBoston Logan (BOS)2MDec. 21, Dec. 28ModerateHigh Northeast travelDallas/Fort Worth (DFW)3.2MDec. 19, Dec. 28ModerateMajor American Airlines hub
Airport Traffic in 2025: Record-Breaking Predictions for the Holiday Season
US airports are expected to experience an unprecedented surge in passenger traffic during the 2025 holiday season. According to TSA, more than 44 million passengers are projected to pass through security checkpoints between December 19 and January 4, marking the highest travel volumes in TSA’s history. Peak travel days such as December 28 will see over 2.8 million passengers flying, with the busiest times occurring in the days just before and after Christmas. These surges are attributed to rebounding demand, a strong economy, and an increasing number of international travelers.
What does this mean for you? Prepare for busy airport terminals and longer security lines. TSA has already advised passengers to arrive early — two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international flights. If you’re travelling on one of the busiest days, be ready for crowds and potential delays. But don’t worry, with the right planning, you can still make your journey smooth.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
With a massive flight network spanning domestic and international routes, LAX is another key player in the 2025 holiday surge. It is forecast to handle over 3.7 million passengers, making it the second busiest U.S. airport. LAX sees peaks around Dec. 20 and Dec. 27, especially with a large number of international passengers heading to Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
JFK, serving the New York metropolitan area, is set to see high passenger traffic this holiday season. Expected to handle over 3 million passengers from Dec. 19 to Jan. 5, JFK remains a major international hub, particularly for transatlantic and Latin American flights. With strong traffic around Dec. 26 and Jan. 2, expect high volumes and longer wait times at security checkpoints.
Managing Holiday Delays: What You Need to Know
While airport terminals across the U.S. are ready for the holiday rush, delays are inevitable, especially during peak travel days. Weather conditions in the Northeast and West Coast can affect flight schedules, so passengers should check flight statuses regularly. According to the latest data, Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Miami International (MIA) are among the airports with the highest holiday delay rates (around 26% of flights delayed).
In contrast, LAX is known for its lower delay rates due to favourable weather conditions. However, even at the best-performing airports, weather-related delays, along with the high volume of passengers, can cause service disruptions. TSA suggests arriving early, staying updated on flight statuses, and packing patience during these high-stress travel days
Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington
Seattle–Tacoma International Airport (SEA), one of the fastest-growing airports on the West Coast, is gearing up for a surge in passenger numbers. With nearly 2.5 million passengers expected to fly through SEA during the 2025 holiday season, Dec. 23 and Dec. 26 will likely be the busiest days. SEA serves as a primary hub for Alaska Airlines, which connects passengers to domestic and Asia-Pacific destinations.
In addition to high domestic traffic, SEA also expects international connections to be strong, particularly to Japan, South Korea, and China, with long‑haul flights seeing a surge in bookings.
San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California
San Francisco International Airport (SFO) will experience significant holiday traffic with 2.8 million passengers expected between Dec. 19 and Jan. 5. Known for its heavy international traffic, SFO’s Asian, European, and Pacific routes contribute to this growth. The busiest days will be around Dec. 23 and Dec. 28 as both inbound and outbound international travelers flock to the airport.
SFO’s improvements to passenger services, such as faster TSA screening and increased staff, aim to keep the flow moving efficiently during peak travel days. However, with potential weather disruptions in the Northeast and West Coast, delays could still occur.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) is a major hub for long‑haul international flights, particularly those connecting to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. 2 million passengers are expected at IAD this holiday season, with Dec. 22 and Dec. 28 expected to be the busiest days.
With significant international passenger volumes, IAD will handle a surge in flights from Europe, especially London, Paris, and Frankfurt. TSA wait times will be elevated due to the international nature of the routes, but staffing increases and streamlined procedures are designed to manage the large crowds efficiently.
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), Arizona
Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), with its prime location connecting the West Coast to the rest of the U.S., will also see significant holiday traffic. 2.3 million passengers are expected between Dec. 19 and Jan. 4. Peak travel dates for PHX will be Dec. 21 and Dec. 27, when many passengers return from holiday vacations or take part in New Year’s celebrations.
PHX is the largest airport in Arizona and serves as a critical hub for American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, handling a strong flow of both domestic and international flights. Increased traffic from California, Nevada, and Texas will contribute to its busy season.
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) continues to be a major hub for travel to New England, with nearly 2 million passengers expected in 2025 over the holiday period. Dec. 19 and Dec. 26 will likely be the busiest days, with travelers returning home for family gatherings or New Year’s Eve celebrations. The airport will also see a high volume of international travelers from Europe and Asia.
Logan’s infrastructure improvements, including faster customs processing and expanded gates, are designed to handle the influx. However, passengers are advised to anticipate longer TSA lines and check flight statuses for potential delays.
Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), Illinois
As a secondary airport in Chicago, Midway handles large volumes of domestic traffic, especially to destinations such as Orlando, New York, and Atlanta. The airport expects 1.4 million passengers this holiday season, with Dec. 21 and Dec. 27 expected to be peak days for departures and arrivals.
Due to its proximity to O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Midway often sees passengers rerouted during peak periods, contributing to its high volume. Travelers are encouraged to arrive early and check for updates to manage potential delays due to high demand.
Delays and Challenges: What to Expect at U.S. Airports
While the surge in passenger traffic brings excitement, it also comes with its share of delays and operational challenges. A recent study by SkyRefund revealed that Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Miami International Airport (MIA) tend to have the highest delay rates, with MCO suffering a 26.39% delay rate during the holiday season.
However, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and San Francisco International (SFO) have been noted for their lower delay rates during the same period, primarily due to more favourable weather and higher operational efficiencies. Passengers should be mindful of weather disruptions, particularly in regions like the Northeast and West Coast, where winter storms could impact flight schedules.
How to Prepare for the 2025 Holiday Travel Surge
As 2025’s busiest travel season approaches, airport officials are advising passengers to plan ahead to ensure a smoother experience. Here are some key tips for navigating the holiday rush:
Arrive early: TSA recommends two hours before domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
Check flight statuses before heading to the airport to stay informed about delays or cancellations.
Be prepared for security lines: Familiarize yourself with TSA rules, and make sure to pack liquids and electronics properly.
Keep track of weather: Stay updated on weather forecasts, especially if traveling to or from the Northeast and West Coast, where storms may delay flights.
Use mobile apps: Many airports offer real-time updates via their official apps, including gate changes and security wait times.
Navigating the Holiday Travel Rush with Patience and Preparation
With millions of passengers passing through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport during this festive season, it’s no surprise that the holiday travel rush is in full effect. However, with careful planning and a proactive approach, travelers can minimize stress and ensure their travels go as smoothly as possible. From early arrivals to weather monitoring, taking the right steps before heading to the airport will make a significant difference during this peak travel season. Keep an eye on updates, stay informed about possible delays, and make your way through the busy terminals with confidence.
