Memorial Day weekend travel is set to reach unprecedented heights, with air and road travelers expected to set new records despite severe storms disrupting travel in some regions.
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Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) is bracing for its most crowded summer season yet, with Memorial Day weekend expected to see a surge of 1.5 million travelers. The airport anticipates a 10% increase in passenger traffic during the five-day holiday period, with Friday, May 24, being the busiest day with an estimated 260,000 passengers. To handle the increased influx, DFW has deployed over 300 volunteer Ambassadors and professional Airport Customer Experience Specialists (ACES) to assist travelers. The airport also encourages passengers to utilize its website and mobile app for resources like security wait times and parking reservations. DFW expects to welcome nearly 25 million passengers between May and July, a 10% increase from last year. To ensure a smooth travel experience, travelers are advised to visit DFW’s Travel Tips page and sign up for a MyDFW account for personalized information and exclusive promotions.
Over Memorial Day weekend, an estimated 38.4 million people will travel by car, marking a 4% increase from last year. Air travel is also expected to surge, with 3.51 million passengers predicted to fly. United Airlines anticipates its busiest ever Memorial Day weekend, with over 3 million passengers expected. The most crowded airports will likely be Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International, Dallas Fort Worth International, Denver International, Chicago O’Hare International, and Los Angeles International. To avoid road congestion, drivers should leave before 11 a.m. on May 23rd or 24th, or wait until the evening. Avoid driving between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. on May 26th or 27th when returning home. Popular domestic destinations include Orlando, Seattle, New York City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Denver.
AAA predicts a surge in drivers over Memorial Day weekend, making it the second-highest travel forecast since 2000. Growth Energy, the largest biofuel trade association, estimates that consumers can save on fuel costs by using Unleaded 88 (E15), a fuel blend with 15% bioethanol. The Biden administration’s recent initiatives ensure year-round access to E15, a more affordable and lower-carbon fuel option. Last summer, consumers saved an average of 15 to 50 cents per gallon on E15, available at over 3,400 gas stations nationwide. Unleaded 88 offers not only cost savings but also a chance to reduce carbon emissions by up to 17.62 million tons. Travelers can use the Fuel Finder app to locate gas stations selling Unleaded 88 (E15) and other ethanol blends.
AAA forecasts over 43.8 million travelers during the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, a 4% increase from last year and nearly matching the 2005 record. Road trips are expected to dominate, with 38.4 million people projected to drive. Airports will also be busy, with 3.51 million air travelers anticipated, a 4.8% rise over last year. Other modes of transportation, such as buses, cruises, and trains, are expected to accommodate nearly 2 million travelers. Travelers are advised to avoid peak congestion times when driving, and to check traffic updates regularly.
United Airlines is expecting its busiest Memorial Day weekend ever, with a surge of three million travelers anticipated from May 23 to 28. To facilitate seamless journeys, the airline has enhanced its mobile app with features that allow passengers to bypass queues, navigate security checkpoints, locate gates, and check luggage swiftly, saving them an average of 30 minutes at the airport.
As Memorial Day approaches, travelers should be aware that travel delays are common, with about 20% of travelers experiencing them each year. While travel insurance can help cover financial losses, it’s important to understand what is and isn’t covered.