MORRISVILLE, NC — While Christmas celebrations have come to an end, holiday travel chaos is far from over. Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) is bracing for a surge in passengers as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) predicts Friday, December 27, and Monday, December 30, to be among the busiest travel days of the season.
A Calm Before the Storm
Thursday evening offered a rare moment of calm at RDU, with the airport quieter than usual. Stephanie Miller, who was dropping off her daughter after a Christmas visit, noted the unexpected ease of travel. “We expected there to be more traffic and more people coming in and out, but it’s been a lot easier,” she said.
However, this tranquility is expected to change quickly. Nationwide, about 40 million travelers are projected to pass through U.S. airports between December 19 and January 2, marking a 6.2% increase from last year, according to the TSA.
Travelers Share Their Experiences
Jalen Hollingsworth and his girlfriend were among those who managed to beat the crowds, flying back to Dallas on Thursday evening. “We had a great time, I had enough food, and I got a lot of gifts,” Hollingsworth said with a laugh. The couple’s four checked bags hinted at a festive holiday haul.
Others, however, are preparing for longer waits and larger crowds. To ease the stress of travel, the TSA is reminding passengers to arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights.
Why the Surge?
The increase in holiday travelers is driven by several factors, including stronger economic conditions and declining airfare costs. According to industry data, North Carolina’s central location also makes RDU a popular choice for connections and holiday visits.
Additionally, RDU has seen consistent growth in passenger numbers over the past decade, reflecting the Triangle region’s expanding population and economic opportunities. In 2023, RDU served over 14 million passengers, a number projected to rise as the area continues to grow.
Tips for Stress-Free Holiday Travel
To help manage the rush, RDU is offering several resources, including live updates on parking availability and security wait times through their website and app. Here are a few additional tips for travelers:
•Pack Smart: Remember to review TSA guidelines on prohibited items and consider using TSA PreCheck for expedited security screening.
•Check Flight Status: Weather conditions and high demand can cause delays. Stay updated on your flight through airline apps or websites.
•Plan Parking: With airport lots filling quickly, consider off-site parking options or ride-share services to avoid last-minute hassles.
A Community Commitment
As the Triangle’s premier newspaper, The Bull City Citizen is committed to keeping residents informed about major events affecting our region. Stay tuned for updates on travel conditions, local news, and tips to navigate this bustling holiday season.
(Sources: Transportation Security Administration, Raleigh-Durham International Airport Passenger Data, interviews with travelers and TSA officials)
