US airports end busiest summer ever with busy Labor Day weekend

The Transportation Security Administration says the busiest summer ever for the nation’s airports will end with the busiest Labor Day weekend ever.

The TSA expects to screen 17 million passengers between Thursday, August 29, and Wednesday, September 4, an increase of nearly 8.5% from last year. The agency expects August 30 to be the busiest day of the weekend, with 2.87 million travelers processed.

Labor Day marked the end of a busy summer for the agency. The 10 busiest days on record occurred since Memorial Day weekend.

“People are traveling more than ever this summer, and TSA, along with our airline and airport partners, is prepared to wrap up the busiest summer travel season ever this upcoming Labor Day weekend,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “I commend our vigilant employees, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes who are working hard to keep the transportation system safe – especially as we continue to introduce new checkpoint technologies that improve security effectiveness, efficiency and the passenger experience.”

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AAA also expects heavy traffic on the roads. The organization expects travel to increase 9% this year compared to last year.

Cheryl Nelson, a travel preparation expert, shared some tips for those driving to their destination. She says it’s important to check the car before you travel, including checking the wipers, fluids, oil, filter and lights.

“If you have a rental car, do the same thing,” Nelson said. “Walk around the car, take pictures and make sure everything is OK before you leave the rental car center.”

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She also says it’s important to have an emergency kit with you while on vacation.

“As a disaster preparedness expert, I always tell people to have one in the car, even at home. So things like first aid kit, water, protein bars in your vehicle,” she said. “If you get stuck in traffic, which is likely to happen if you’re traveling in a densely populated area, pack patience and have those things with you.”

She also recommends carrying a paper map in your car in case your GPS stops working.