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Thanksgiving Travel in the US: What to Expect in 2025

Source: How bad will Thanksgiving travel be in the US? (2025-11-20)

Despite recent government shutdown disruptions, US travel is stabilizing for Thanksgiving 2025, but crowds and delays remain inevitable As the United States emerges from a historic 43-day government shutdown, millions of Americans are gearing up for one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. While federal agencies like the TSA and FAA have faced staffing shortages and operational disruptions, recent measures and congressional funding have helped restore normalcy. Experts predict that air travel, which experienced temporary restrictions and delays during the shutdown, will return to near-pre-pandemic levels of efficiency, but travelers should still brace for crowded airports, long security lines, and congested roads. The shutdown's impact included thousands of federal employees working unpaid, leading to staffing gaps at airports and national parks, and temporary airspace restrictions that caused flight delays. Now, with the government reopened, air traffic controllers and TSA officers have resumed full duties, and airport operations are improving. However, the sheer volume of travelers—estimated at over 55 million Americans traveling domestically—means congestion will persist. Recent facts highlight that: 1. The TSA has increased staffing levels by 15% compared to last year to handle holiday crowds. 2. Major airports like Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles are expecting record passenger numbers, with some flights fully booked weeks in advance. 3. Road traffic is projected to be at 90% of pre-pandemic levels, with major highways experiencing significant congestion, especially in urban areas. 4. The Federal Highway Administration reports that travel times could increase by up to 50% during peak hours. 5. New travel technology, including real-time traffic apps and automated security lanes, aims to ease congestion but may not fully eliminate delays. 6. The rise of remote work and flexible schedules has slightly shifted travel patterns, spreading out peak times but not enough to prevent overcrowding. 7. Airlines are adding extra flights and staffing to accommodate increased demand, but staffing shortages still pose challenges. 8. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to heightened health protocols, adding to security and boarding times at airports. 9. The holiday travel surge is expected to last from Wednesday through Sunday, with the busiest days being Wednesday afternoon and Sunday evening. 10. Travelers are advised to arrive at airports at least 2-3 hours early and to monitor real-time updates for delays and cancellations. In conclusion, while the US travel system is on the mend after the shutdown, Thanksgiving 2025 will still be characterized by high volumes and inevitable delays. Planning ahead, staying flexible, and utilizing modern travel tools can help mitigate some frustrations. As the nation continues to recover and adapt, travelers can expect a more stable but still bustling holiday travel season, emphasizing the importance of patience and preparedness for a smooth journey.

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