TSA Expects The Busiest Labor Day in History

According to the Transportation Security Administration, we are going to see the busiest Labor Day in history next weekend. The TSA predicts a whopping 17 million passengers will pass through its checkpoints.  

Labor Day Travel Surge

The seven-day travel surge will have its peak on August 30, with the agency expecting around 2.86 million travelers. 

TSA Administrator David Pekoske said, “People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend.” 

Pekoske added, “I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secure — especially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.”

Busy Summer for TSA

TSA expects the most intense summer in its history. The agency anticipates travel volume 8.5% higher than last year. Since Memorial Day weekend, almost 240 million passengers have passed through TSA checkpoints. That’s an average of 2.7 million passengers per day. 

It is also worth noting that TSA’s top 10 busiest days all occurred this summer. This includes the 3-million-traveler day that happened on July 7th.

Aside from those flying,  roads are also expected to become busy this Labor Day. The American Automobile Association (AAA) expects road travel to be 9% higher this year compared to last. 

Cheryl Nelson, a travel preparedness expert, suggests checking your car before traveling. Nelson said, “If you have a rental car, do the same stuff.” 

She also suggests having an emergency kit if you’re traveling this holiday. She advises, “I always tell people as a disaster prep expert, have one in your car, also at home. So in your vehicle, things like your first aid kit, water, protein bars.” Nelson added,  “If you get stranded in traffic, which you probably will if you’re traveling in a heavily populated area, pack your patience, have those things with you.”