TEXAS — According to American Automobile Association (AAA) Texas, nearly 6 million Texans are expected to travel over 50 miles from home for the Thanksgiving holiday. Millions will pass through Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), where hundreds of flight delays have been reported since Monday morning.
The Thanksgiving holiday is one of the busiest travel times of the year, and optimistic travelers are looking to minimize the turbulence in their holiday plans.
“We came a bit early so that we can just stay here, maybe grab a lunch or something before we head out, and we are hoping the flight is on time,” said Vanadana Khosla, who was traveling with family to Las Vegas on Monday. “The family’s together, and we can just go around and relax with the kids and enjoy our vacation.”
DFW is expected to be the second busiest airport in the U.S., according to transport services provider Transfeero. Passengers are already feeling the stress, with over 500 flight delays reported as of early Monday, according to FlightAware.
“Our flight has been delayed twice, so we’re on a flight now. We have to sit here for five hours,” said Tracie Hicks, who was traveling back to Virginia with her husband after attending a Dallas Cowboys game. “It’s not ideal, and it concerns me a little, because I’m like, what if this flight’s delayed?”
Other Texas airports, including Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, are preparing for an influx of travelers.
“Last year, TSA processed about 370,000 people over the span of 12 days,” said Jacquelyn Eckmann, a senior public information officer with Austin-Bergstrom. “This year, we expect it to be no different, if not more.”
Airports recommend adding an extra 60 to 90 minutes to your normal routine for getting to the airport and at least two hours before domestic departures.