FAA’s Thanksgiving Travel Tips: How to Navigate the Busiest Air Travel Period in 15 Years with Over 360,000 Flights Scheduled in USA

Published on November 22, 2025

Washington, D.C., the heart of the United States, is bracing for an unprecedented holiday travel season as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announces that Thanksgiving 2025 will likely be the busiest travel period in 15 years. With more than 360,000 flights expected to take off during the Thanksgiving week, the peak day will be Tuesday, Nov. 25, with 52,000 flights taking to the skies. As millions of travelers prepare to visit family and friends, the FAA is putting measures in place to ensure safe and efficient air travel across the country.

This record-breaking travel surge is set to put significant strain on the U.S. air traffic system, but the FAA is prepared. Air traffic controllers, who play a vital role in ensuring safe skies, will be implementing a series of strategies to handle the increased traffic while maintaining safety. The FAA’s dedicated workforce is committed to ensuring the smooth operation of air traffic flow, even during this high-demand period.

The upcoming holiday travel period highlights the growing importance of air travel as a means of connecting loved ones. Whether flying for a long-distance family reunion or taking advantage of the holiday to visit friends, Thanksgiving travel continues to be one of the busiest travel times in the United States. As travelers take to the skies, the FAA reminds passengers to plan ahead, pack safely, and adhere to all security protocols to ensure a seamless travel experience.

FAA Prepares for Thanksgiving Surge: A Record 52,000 Flights on Peak Day

As the busiest travel time of the year approaches, the FAA has outlined key details about the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period. With record-high traffic expected, the following steps are being implemented to support safe and efficient travel:

• Flight Operations: Over 360,000 flights are projected to operate during the Thanksgiving week, with Tuesday, Nov. 25 being the peak day for travel.
• Air Traffic Control Strategies: Air traffic controllers will employ a variety of techniques to manage the surge in air traffic, ensuring that planes remain safely separated and that airspace is used efficiently.
• Communication with Airlines: The FAA will work closely with airlines to ensure that flight schedules are adjusted if necessary and that air traffic flow remains uninterrupted.

Top Tips for Safe and Efficient Thanksgiving Travel

As millions prepare to travel across the country, the FAA offers these essential tips to ensure a smooth and safe experience:

• Plan Ahead: Always check your flight status before heading to the airport, especially during peak travel times. Early check-in can help streamline the process.
• Arrive Early: With high passenger volumes expected, it’s essential to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before your flight’s scheduled departure to allow ample time for check-in and security screening.
• Pack Smart: Make sure all luggage complies with TSA regulations. Avoid carrying prohibited items and keep your carry-on bag organized to speed up security checks.
• Be Patient: Travel delays are common during high-traffic periods. Remain calm, follow crew instructions, and be courteous to airport and airline personnel.
• Stay Informed: Check the FAA’s official website for real-time flight delays and updates throughout the holiday period. The FAA’s tools help keep travelers informed about potential disruptions.

FAA’s Commitment to Safety Amid Record Traffic

The FAA’s commitment to safety during this busy travel season is unwavering. Despite the increased number of flights and the complex logistics of managing air traffic, the FAA ensures that each flight is carefully monitored for safety. Here’s how the FAA maintains the safety and efficiency of air travel:

• Real-Time Monitoring: The FAA continuously monitors air traffic operations using advanced radar systems and air traffic control technology to ensure planes maintain the necessary separation for safety.
• Weather Management: Weather conditions are a critical factor in air traffic. The FAA works closely with meteorological services to adjust flight routes and schedules if severe weather conditions are expected.
• Air Traffic Controller Training: Controllers undergo rigorous training to handle high-traffic periods and are equipped with the necessary tools to manage complex air traffic situations.
• Airport Coordination: Airports across the country are working in close partnership with the FAA to prepare for the increase in air traffic, ensuring that passengers have a smooth journey from check-in to takeoff.

Growth in Air Traffic: A Long-Term Trend

The increase in Thanksgiving travel numbers is part of a larger trend of rising air traffic volumes in the United States. Passenger numbers continue to climb, as evidenced by the rise in passengers from 32.4 million in 2019 to 46.7 million in 2024. This growth reflects the ongoing recovery of the aviation industry and the increasing reliance on air travel for both business and leisure.

• Impact of COVID-19: The pandemic significantly impacted air travel, but the rebound has been swift, with airlines and airports adapting to the new challenges presented by the surge in passengers.
• Demand for Air Travel: The surge in Thanksgiving travel is also an indicator of pent-up demand for in-person family gatherings and social events, which were restricted during the pandemic. The rise in passengers highlights the enduring importance of air travel in connecting people across the globe.

Tips for Traveling with Children and Pets

Traveling during Thanksgiving with children and pets can be challenging, but the following tips can help make the journey more comfortable for all:

• Travel with Children: Keep snacks, toys, and entertainment on hand to keep children occupied during the flight. Additionally, try to book flights during times that align with nap schedules to ensure a smoother journey.
• Flying with Pets: Ensure your pet’s carrier meets airline requirements, and check the airline’s pet policy ahead of time. Some airlines may require a pet health certificate, so be sure to have it ready.
• Family Seating: If flying with children, try to request family seating or seats that are located near the front of the plane for easier access to facilities.

Looking Ahead: What to Expect from FAA in the Future

As the FAA continues to manage record air traffic numbers, the organization is looking ahead to the future of air travel. The FAA is working on improving technology, infrastructure, and air traffic management systems to keep up with the growing demand for air travel:

• NextGen Technology: The FAA’s NextGen air traffic control system is designed to modernize the U.S. aviation system, making air travel more efficient and reducing delays.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Airports across the country are investing in new terminals, runways, and gate expansions to accommodate increasing passenger numbers and improve the travel experience.
• Sustainability Efforts: The FAA is committed to reducing carbon emissions in the aviation sector and promoting more sustainable aviation practices.

Conclusion

As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, the FAA is fully prepared to manage the busiest travel period in 15 years. With over 360,000 flights scheduled and 52,000 flights expected on the peak travel day, the FAA’s advanced systems, dedicated personnel, and strategic planning will help ensure the safe and efficient movement of passengers across the United States. Travelers are encouraged to follow the FAA’s holiday travel tips, plan ahead, and remain patient, as the country navigates this high-demand season. With the ongoing rise in air traffic and the FAA’s commitment to innovation, air travel in the U.S. is set for a more efficient and sustainable future.