FAA opens military airspace to manage record Thanksgiving travel

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken significant steps to manage the surge in air travel during the Thanksgiving holiday in the United States. This year, the holiday is expected to see the busiest travel period on record, with more than 18 million airport screenings anticipated. To alleviate congestion and delays, the FAA has secured the use of military airspace, which is typically reserved for military operations, to facilitate smoother travel for commercial aircraft. This initiative includes special airspace off the East Coast and Gulf of Mexico, strategically designed to lessen the volume of air traffic overland and enhance the efficiency of air travel. The Department of Transportation (DOT) announced these travel measures in the weeks leading up to the holiday, emphasizing the collaborative efforts between the FAA and military authorities to ensure that civilian passengers can travel with less interruption. As the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) noted, there has been a 6% increase in passenger volume compared to the previous year, reflecting broader trends in air travel recovery post-pandemic and the November 2024 travel predictions. TSA officials predict that the busiest days for travel will be the Tuesday and Wednesday preceding Thanksgiving and the Sunday following the holiday. In the face of these record numbers, TSA is urging travelers to prepare accordingly to avoid potential delays at security checkpoints. Travelers are reminded to pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in compliance with the 3.4-ounce rule and are advised to bring acceptable identification to facilitate smooth checkpoint processing. Foods that qualify as liquids or gels, such as gravy and cranberry sauce, must be packed in checked luggage if they exceed the limit. Solid foods, however, are permitted in carry-on bags. As millions of Americans embark on their holiday journeys, this coordinated effort by the FAA and DOT reflects an understanding of the importance of efficient air travel during one of the peak travel seasons, allowing families to reconnect for Thanksgiving festivities. The collaboration underscores the responsibility of government agencies to respond to the challenges presented by increased travel demands while prioritizing security and efficiency for all passengers.