US Airports Brace for Record Passenger Numbers as TSA Prepares for Peak Holiday Travel, What You Need to Know

Published on December 27, 2025

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is gearing up for an exceptionally busy holiday travel season, with projections pointing towards record-breaking passenger numbers across US airports. With over 44.3 million travelers expected to pass through security checkpoints from December 19, 2025, to January 4, 2026, TSA is taking all necessary measures to ensure a smooth and secure experience for air travelers. As the holiday season approaches, TSA is fully staffed and prepared to meet the demands of the anticipated surge in airport traffic.

Record-Breaking Travel Projections for 2025-2026

TSA officials have outlined expectations for the heaviest travel days of the holiday season, with Sunday, December 28, 2025, predicted to be the busiest, with 2.86 million passengers passing through security. Other high-traffic dates include December 19, 20, 21, 27 and 29. TSA officials have stated that the busiest day last year was Friday, December 27, 2024, when 2.85 million travelers were screened.

These figures highlight the significant increase in air travel during the holidays, underlining the importance of effective preparation to maintain safety and efficiency at US airports. The TSA’s efforts aim to ensure that travelers can continue to enjoy a seamless and secure flying experience despite the high volume of passengers.

Key TSA Improvements Under the “Golden Age of Travel” Vision

In 2025, TSA is set to achieve another milestone in its commitment to security and convenience for US travelers. Following the implementation of several new initiatives this year under the “Golden Age of Travel” vision, TSA has made significant strides in streamlining the travel experience. These initiatives are aimed at reducing wait times, enhancing security measures and improving the overall passenger experience.

One of the key developments was the enforcement of the REAL ID Act, which became mandatory on May 7, 2025. As part of this initiative, TSA requires travelers to present compliant identification for domestic flights starting in 2026. Beginning on February 1, 2026, passengers without an acceptable form of ID will be given an option to use TSA ConfirmID, a modernized identity verification system, for $45 to verify their identity and proceed with their travel.

Additionally, TSA introduced several measures to make travel easier for military personnel and families. The “Serve with Honor, Travel with Ease” program provides expedited TSA PreCheck lanes for military service members, while also offering free TSA PreCheck enrollment for surviving family members of military personnel who lost their lives in service. Furthermore, TSA PreCheck discounts are now available to spouses of military and uniformed service members.

Streamlined Experience for Families and Travelers

Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced a new policy that further enhances the travel experience. For the first time, passengers will be allowed to keep their shoes on while going through TSA security checkpoints. This policy, which is set to reduce the burden on travelers and make the process more efficient, applies to domestic airport security screenings.

In addition, TSA’s “Families on the Fly” initiative, launched this year, aims to improve the experience for families traveling during the busy holiday season. The program includes dedicated family lanes at select airports nationwide, ensuring a smoother screening process for families with children and reducing the stress associated with airport security procedures.

TSA’s BOGO Offer to Encourage PreCheck Enrollment

TSA has also rolled out a special offer to encourage travelers to take advantage of TSA PreCheck, which helps expedite the security screening process. The Buy One, Get One (BOGO) promotion, available until December 31, 2025, offers $15 off the second enrollment for passengers who sign up together. This initiative, available through TSA’s authorized providers such as CLEAR, IDEMIA and Telos, is an excellent opportunity for families and groups to enroll in TSA PreCheck ahead of their holiday travels and save both time and money.

A Seamless Holiday Travel Experience

TSA is taking every possible step to ensure that travelers enjoy a safe and seamless journey as they navigate airport security checkpoints this holiday season. With a combination of new policies, streamlined procedures and technological advancements, TSA is prepared to handle the influx of passengers and provide an efficient security process across the nation’s busiest airports.

As the holiday season draws near, the Transportation Security Administration remains focused on making air travel more efficient, secure and convenient for all passengers. With a record number of travelers expected to pass through US airports, TSA’s dedication to enhancing the traveler experience is sure to help ease the stresses of holiday travel while maintaining the highest levels of security.

Preparing for Record-Breaking Holiday Traffic

The Transportation Security Administration’s efforts to prepare for a record-breaking holiday season highlight the agency’s commitment to ensuring air travel in the US remains safe, efficient and accessible. With the introduction of new policies, advanced screening technologies and initiatives like TSA PreCheck, passengers can look forward to a more streamlined experience as they make their way through airport security. Whether traveling for family gatherings, vacations, or business, the TSA’s enhanced measures are set to make the holiday journey more seamless than ever before.