Top Tips for Summer 2024 Travel as Records are Already Being Broken

Memorial Day weekend kicked off the summer travel season with a bang, setting records for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The Friday before the holiday weekend saw a staggering 2.9 million people screened, making it the busiest day ever for the agency. In fact, five of the 10 busiest days on record occurred in May alone. Compared to 2023, the TSA screened nearly 8% more people over the holiday weekend.

With the Summer Olympics in Paris and other travel-worthy events on the horizon, U.S. airlines are predicting a record-breaking summer. Airlines for America forecasts that 271 million travelers will take to the skies between June 1 and August 31, surpassing last summer’s record of 255 million. To accommodate the surge in demand, airlines have added over 26,000 flights daily, a 5.6% increase from the previous year.

Despite thunderstorms disrupting parts of the country over Memorial Day weekend, U.S. airlines managed to perform exceptionally well. Rebecca Spicer, A4A’s senior vice president of communications, expressed excitement about flying a record number of travelers this summer. Airlines have adjusted their schedules to alleviate pressure points in the National Airspace System, ensuring a smooth travel season.

As the summer travel season heats up, travelers are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for potential delays or cancellations. Booking nonstop flights, arriving early at the airport, and enrolling in Trusted Traveler Programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry are recommended strategies to navigate the busy travel season. With the Biden administration implementing more passenger-friendly rules, travelers can rest assured that their rights are protected in case of flight disruptions.