Experts offer travel tips for busy holiday week
Nov 24, 2024
MEMPHIS, Tenn. --- It's going to be one of the busiest travel weeks in history with AAA expecting record-setting numbers on both the roads and in the skies.
Thanksgiving travel is officially underway at the Memphis International Airport. Officials say between last Friday and December 2, 90,000 people are expected to come through a checkpoint.
The Memphis International Airport is all set for a busy week, but even with all hands on deck, officials warn travelers to plan ahead and arrive two hours before their flight, especially if it’s between 5 AM and 7 AM.
There’s a similar story across the country as the Transportation Security Administration predicts that around 18 million people will travel by air, the highest volumes they've seen.
“Fortunately, our staffing in TSA is also at the highest levels that they have ever been,” TSA Administrator David Pekoske said.
Weekend events bring thousands to downtown Memphis
Millions are expected to hit the road too. AAA reports 71 million nationwide will travel 50 or more miles. That’s a million more than last year. It predicts that the busiest time on the roads will be Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol puts extra emphasis on the roads as they post travel tips like checking tire pressure and charging your cell phone.
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office says they're going to be out in full force as they ask drivers to be extra careful.
The sheriff's office also is reminding folks in the Arlington, Lakeland, and unincorporated areas of the county to let them know if you're going out of town so they can check on your home or business.
“This year has already been the busiest in TSA history,” Pekoske said. “All top 10 of our top busiest days in our 23 years have occurred after the 24th of May this year.”
If you are coming to the airport, Memphis International Airport is expecting the parking lots to reach capacity during peak travel days. There will be additional signage and staff to direct the driver to available spots.