Thanksgiving Travel Made Easy: Tips for Miami and Fort Lauderdale Airport, Get the Details Here

Published on November 22, 2025

In anticipation of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, the airports in South Florida, Miami International (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) prepare to welcome historically high volumes of holiday travelers. South Florida will be quite busy, and MIA expects to accommodate almost 2 million travelers during the holidays. An interesting mix of construction work. MIA. Enhanced services, and increased demand will pose both challenges and opportunities for both travelers busy during the travel holiday and travelers hurricane in operational services for the first time. Here is a guide to negotiation of the Thanksgiving travel crunch like a pro.

Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers Expected at MIA and FLL

South Florida airports are set to handle a massive influx of travelers this Thanksgiving season. Miami International Airport (MIA) anticipates serving 1.96 million passengers, a 4% increase over last year’s record. Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) is also expecting a significant jump in passengers, with many travelers heading to Florida as one of the top holiday destinations in the U.S.

The busiest days at MIA are projected to be from November 21-22 and November 29-December 1, with passenger numbers reaching or exceeding 170,000 daily. FLL will see similar levels of traffic, particularly on the days leading up to and immediately after Thanksgiving. As a result, passengers should expect longer lines, crowded terminals, and potential delays.

Key Airport Renovations: MIA’s $9 Billion Makeover

Miami International is currently undergoing a massive $9 billion renovation project that is set to transform the airport by 2039. While the ongoing upgrades are aimed at improving the travel experience in the long term, they can present challenges during peak travel times. Travelers should be prepared for detours and temporary signs due to construction work.

One of the most noticeable changes will be the relocation of baggage claim areas. For arriving passengers, be aware that signs may direct you to a baggage claim area that’s on the same floor as the ticket counters for departing flights. You’ll need to take an elevator or escalator to reach the baggage claim on a lower level. To help with any confusion, look for airport employees wearing blue vests with “Lightning Crew” written on them. These friendly staff members are stationed throughout the airport to assist passengers with any questions or concerns.

Upgrades at MIA: Improved Accessibility and Faster Customs Processing

Despite the construction, MIA is rolling out several improvements to enhance the passenger experience. As of November 2025, 94% of the airport’s 616 escalators, elevators, and moving walkways are operational, making it easier for travelers to move between terminals. The addition of automated passport screening technology has also improved the efficiency of the customs process. New face pods in concourses D, E, and J are designed to cut down on wait times for international travelers, allowing passport photos to be matched with customs records within three seconds.

Additionally, the Skytrain, which serves the North Terminal’s Concourse D (home to American Airlines), has fully resumed service. The Skytrain provides a convenient way for travelers to move between terminals, further reducing congestion and enhancing the overall airport experience.

Weather and Potential Delays: What to Expect This Thanksgiving

While sunny weather is expected in South Florida, Thanksgiving travel may be affected by weather disruptions further north. Bad weather conditions, including rain and fog in the eastern U.S., and winter storms in the Midwest and Rockies, may cause flight delays and cancellations. This can have a ripple effect on both MIA and FLL, potentially impacting travelers heading to or from destinations in the U.S. and abroad.

To mitigate any surprises, passengers should keep an eye on the weather forecast and check for updates on their flights. It’s also important to remain flexible with travel plans, especially if there are delays due to weather in other parts of the country.

Parking at MIA and FLL: Plan Ahead for Convenience

Both MIA and FLL anticipate a surge in parking demand during the Thanksgiving period. MIA recommends that travelers use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or opt for drop-off by family or friends, as parking lots are expected to fill up quickly. For those who must park at the airport, MIA offers several options:

• Reserved Parking: Travelers can prepay for a parking spot at MIA’s Flamingo or Dolphin garages, guaranteeing a space in advance.
• Economy Parking: MIA’s remote Economy Park and Ride lot offers half-price parking at $12 per day, with a free shuttle service to the terminal.
• Valet Parking: For those who want a premium experience, MIA offers valet parking at the Dolphin and Flamingo garages for $25 for stays under three hours.

Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International (FLL) also recommends pre-booking parking spots in advance due to expected high demand. FLL has three main garages, and an overflow lot will be available during peak travel times. For short-term waiting, FLL offers a free cellphone parking lot for those picking up passengers.

TSA Tips for Smooth Security Screening

To help speed up the security screening process, both MIA and FLL advise passengers to arrive at the airport three hours before their flight departs, especially during peak travel days. Travelers should also check in online before arriving to save time at the airport.

MIA offers a tool that provides real-time updates on TSA checkpoint wait times, allowing passengers to make more informed decisions on which checkpoint to use. The airport also recommends packing essential items such as medicine, travel documents, and a phone charger in your carry-on bag, in case your flight gets delayed, and you’re unable to access your checked luggage.

For those traveling with liquids or gels, remember to follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit into a quart-sized bag. Avoid packing items that resemble prohibited weapons or items, which could cause delays.

Thanksgiving Travel Forecast: A Busy but Manageable Season

Despite the expected increase in passenger numbers and potential weather-related disruptions, Thanksgiving travel through MIA and FLL can be manageable with the right preparation. Travelers should be proactive about checking flight statuses, arriving early, and utilizing technology tools to streamline the airport experience. With patience and a little planning, you can navigate South Florida’s busiest travel season with ease.

Thanksgiving Travel in South Florida

Thanksgiving travel will certainly be busy this year, especially with record number of passengers expected this year with MIA and FLL. Most people will be driving, and with construction near the airport, things will surely be busy. Although, recent changes have made the airport easier to navigate, making travel a more seamless experience. Though travel during the holiday season is typically stressful, we’ll make it easier.