Passenger numbers are getting closer to what they were pre-pandemic as airports brace for a surge of travelers over the next two weeks.
Category
🗞
NewsTranscript
00:00With passenger numbers getting closer to pre-pandemic levels, airports all across the country are bracing for a surge of travelers over the next two weeks.
00:08Here in Philadelphia, busiest days are expected to be December 26th and 27th, and the Sunday and Monday leading into New Year's Day.
00:16Make yourself a checklist and check it twice this holiday season.
00:20For those planning to fly, a smooth trip starts with preparation.
00:24That could mean anything from packing smart or staying informed about flight delays.
00:30Sign up for your airline's email or text alerts.
00:33They're going to provide you the information with what's going on with your flight.
00:38Weather, especially in winter, can bring its own set of unique challenges, and delays in one part of the country can ripple across the entire system.
00:47Regardless, airports are prepared for winter's challenges.
00:51It hasn't been needed just yet in Philadelphia, but crews are standing by to de-ice planes and clear runways if that becomes a factor, to ensure flights can safely depart and arrive on time.
01:03De-icing adds time on planes leaving or when they come in, and people making, if they need to make a connection.
01:12So we're always working with our airline partners and staying on top of weather and what our crews need to do to clear runways and make sure that planes are able to get in and out of the airport.
01:22Another key tip, check the TSA website before you pack to see what you can or can't bring.
01:28Wrapped gifts are a big no-no.
01:31They'll likely be unwrapped by officers and security.
01:34So not only will you be holding up the line for you and your family, but hundreds of other families that are trying to get through TSA too.
01:42Instead of wrapping your presents to take with you, bring the wrapping with you to do when you get to your destination, or put them in bags.
01:52If your wrapped boxes or gifts set off the scanner when you're going through, it'll hold up the line.
01:59The officers will need to unwrap it.
02:01Despite these challenges, the stress of holiday travel can be alleviated.
02:05Arrive early, keep an eye on updates, and pack with TSA guidelines in mind.
02:11For AccuWeather, I'm Allie Reed.