30 Million Travelers Expected To Flood Airports For Thanksgiving
BALTIMORE (WJZ) — Between now and next week a record-setting 30 million passengers are expected to travel through airports, which means long lines at TSA.
So think smart as you're packing, especially when it comes to food.
In a holiday tradition that, for millions of travelers, is as common as turkey and stuffing, airports are expected to be as full as most of us will feel after the Thanksgiving meal.
"I expected it to be less stressful on a Monday," said Elena Perkins, heading to Boston.
Perkins was not alone in trying to get ahead of what TSA officials expect to be record-breaking airline passengers.
"Yeah, it's very nice. This is nice and low key tonight, so it's perfect," said Baltimore resident Michele Pugh.
The busiest days are the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.
"US airlines are planning for 30.6 million people to travel," said Sharon Pinkerton, Airlines for America Senior Vice President.
TSA officials say they're ready to meet the demand with more staff and improved carry on scanners.
"We have additional K9 teams, we have new x-ray technology, new credential authentication technology," said David Pekoske, TSA Administrator.
Leading up to Thanksgiving, some 40,000 travelers a day are expected to be screened through TSA checkpoints at BWI in Baltimore.
Packing wisely and enrolling in travel programs is being highly encouraged.
"Pre-check is great. I don't have it right now but I think if you fly a lot it's certainly worth it," said Perkins.
TSA says that while most food you bring is fine, it's important to remember it's still subject to screening and some items are a definite no-no when it comes to carry-on luggage.
"Any forms of wine, you definitely would like to place this into your checked bag as well," said TSA agent Celeste Jones. "and you have gravy, because it's an actual liquid form, you would like to put this into your checked bag."
Traffic getting to the airport is also expected to be bad as we get closer to Thanksgiving. We've told you about the worst day to travel but what about the best day?
That would be Thanksgiving itself.
Follow @WJZ on Twitter and like WJZ-TV | CBS Baltimore on Facebook
