If you’re planning to fly for Thanksgiving this year, brace yourself—America’s airports are about to be packed in a way they haven’t been in a decade and a half. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has announced that the 2025 Thanksgiving travel period will be the busiest since 2010, with more than 360,000 flights scheduled nationwide. That’s not just a lot of planes in the sky; it’s a logistical puzzle that will test every part of the air travel system, from air traffic control to baggage claim.
According to the FAA’s announcement on November 21, the single busiest day will be Tuesday, November 25, when over 52,000 flights are expected to crisscross the country. To put that in perspective, that’s more than one flight taking off every two seconds. FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford praised the agency’s staff, saying air traffic controllers “will be working overtime to manage record-high traffic.” That’s no small feat, especially given the turbulence the industry faced earlier this year due to staffing shortages.
The good news for travelers is that those staffing woes are now largely resolved. As reported by multiple outlets, the FAA has lifted temporary flight bans that were in place earlier in 2025, citing “improved air traffic controller staffing.” Airlines have responded by ramping up to full capacity for the Thanksgiving period, which runs from November 25 to December 1. This restoration of normal operations comes just in time, as AAA forecasts more than 6 million Americans will take to the skies during the holiday week—a slight uptick from last year’s numbers and a sign of the aviation industry’s ongoing recovery from the pandemic’s disruptions.
But with more planes in the air, the risks of delays, cancellations, and crowded terminals have also soared. Historically, Thanksgiving travel is a test of patience, but this year, the stakes are even higher. The ripple effects of a single delayed flight can cascade across the country, stranding passengers and upending holiday plans. The FAA has responded by launching a new civility campaign, urging travelers to “be patient and kind” as they navigate the holiday rush. Still, as any seasoned traveler knows, kindness alone won’t get you to your turkey dinner on time.
So what’s a traveler to do? Experts recommend a strategic approach. Book the earliest flight possible on your travel day—delays tend to snowball as the day goes on, so morning departures have the best chance of leaving on time. Avoid flying on Tuesday, November 25, if you can; it’s expected to be the worst day for delays and congestion. Arrive at the airport at least two hours early for domestic flights, and three hours for international trips. And don’t forget to pack essentials in your carry-on, just in case your checked bag doesn’t make it to your destination when you do.
Technology is also changing the travel experience, sometimes for the better. Southwest Airlines, for instance, has expanded its participation in the TSA’s Touchless ID program at five major airports—Portland, Seattle, Salt Lake City, Atlanta, and New York LaGuardia. This system uses facial recognition to verify passengers’ identities at security checkpoints, which can speed up the process and reduce wait times. Southwest has also reintroduced its digital bag check feature, allowing travelers to pay for checked bags via Apple Pay, PayPal, or credit card during online check-in. These changes are designed to make the journey smoother and more efficient, especially as terminals fill with holiday crowds.
In fact, a new study from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows travelers are embracing these digital innovations. According to the study, 85% of passengers who have used biometric identification at airports reported satisfaction with the process, and 74% said they’re willing to share biometric data if it means a faster airport experience. More than half of travelers now prefer using mobile apps and digital wallets for everything from booking to boarding, reflecting a broader shift toward seamless, mobile-based travel.
Despite these improvements, the threat of delays and cancellations still looms large. Earlier in 2025, 41% of Thanksgiving travelers had to cancel, reschedule, or adjust their plans due to flight disruptions. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) had proposed a rule that would have required airlines to compensate passengers for lengthy delays—ranging from $200 to $775 depending on the situation—but recently withdrew the proposal. The DOT explained that the regulation could drive up operational costs for airlines, which might then pass those costs on to consumers in the form of higher ticket prices. While this may be disappointing for passengers seeking recourse, it underscores the delicate balance between consumer rights and the financial realities of the airline industry.
Airlines are responding to the surge in demand in other ways. JetBlue is expanding its international reach by adding Barcelona and Milan to its European network starting in 2026, while Delta Air Lines has increased flights to Buenos Aires from Atlanta to twice daily for the holiday season. On the flip side, United Airlines plans to discontinue certain international routes next year, including service from Washington D.C. to Dakar, Senegal, and seasonal flights from Newark to Stockholm, Sweden.
For travelers looking for a deal, Frontier Airlines is running a limited-time sale on its GoWild All-You-Can-Fly annual pass, dropping the price from $599 to $349 through December 2. The pass allows unlimited flights to any Frontier destination, though it doesn’t cover extras like checked baggage or seat assignments. It’s an appealing option for those planning multiple trips in 2026 and beyond.
With so many moving parts, the 2025 Thanksgiving travel season is shaping up to be a stress test for airlines, airports, and passengers alike. The improvements in staffing and technology offer hope that the system can handle the surge, but experts caution that flexibility and preparation are still your best friends. Download your airline’s app for real-time updates, consider travel insurance for expensive bookings, and have backup plans ready—including alternative flights or even a road trip if things go sideways.
As millions of Americans gear up to reunite with family and friends, the message from the aviation industry is clear: expect crowds, expect delays, and expect to see every corner of the airport bustling with activity. But with smart planning and a dash of patience, travelers can still make it home for the holidays—even if it means spending a little extra time in the terminal.
