Thanksgiving is the busiest travel period of the year, and the U.S. Thanksgiving travel 2024 is shaping up to be one for the books. Unfortunately, millions of Americans heading to the skies this holiday season are bracing for holiday travel disruptions caused by severe weather and ongoing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) staffing issues.
Here’s what travelers need to know to navigate the challenges of this year’s Thanksgiving getaway.
Winter Storms Add to Holiday Travel Woes
This year’s winter weather travel impact is poised to disrupt plans nationwide. A powerful cross-country storm is expected to bring everything from rain and thunderstorms in the South to heavy snowfall in the Northeast, Midwest, and Rockies.
AccuWeather predicts the storm will “drop multiple feet of snow in California’s Sierra Nevada” before reaching the Denver area and ultimately the Northeast. Chief On-Air Meteorologist Bernie Rayno states, “We are tracking a storm moving ashore in Northern California into Tuesday that will have rainy and snowy implications in the East two days later.”
In New York, the winter storm travel advisory includes warnings for wet and possibly rainy conditions that could affect the Thanksgiving Day Parade.
AccuWeather has also highlighted the potential for severe thunderstorms from Louisiana to Georgia, making the South no safe haven from the weather chaos.
Northern New England and central New England are expected to see the brunt of the snow, with “moderate to heavy snowfall” in higher elevations. Travelers should be prepared for slick roads, flight cancellations, and significant delays.
FAA Staff Shortages Compound Thanksgiving Travel Delays
Adding to the holiday travel disruptions are ongoing FAA staff shortages, which have plagued the agency for years.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has already cautioned travelers to expect delays due to these staffing issues. The airport has advised passengers to check their flight status and arrive early to navigate anticipated bottlenecks.
According to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) will face an added challenge due to major construction projects. The agency expects 1.34 million travelers to pass through JFK between November 25 and December 2.
To ease congestion, Port Authority Chairman Kevin O’Toole urged travelers to plan ahead: “Leave extra time, use public transportation, pre-book parking if you absolutely have to drive to JFK, and visit our website for the latest travel advisories before you leave for the airport.”
Despite the challenges, no major delays had been reported out of Newark as of Tuesday morning, according to FlightAware. However, travelers across the U.S. should remain vigilant and anticipate longer wait times as Thanksgiving approaches.
How to Navigate the Chaos
For those embarking on U.S. Thanksgiving travel 2024, preparation is key. Stay updated on Thanksgiving travel delays by monitoring flight statuses and weather advisories closely.
Consider alternative routes or modes of transport if your destination is within driving distance. Lastly, allow plenty of time for unforeseen delays, especially in regions affected by winter weather travel impact or significant airport construction.
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