Should I factor in Thanksgiving rush at Atlanta airport?
I have an evening flight on Thanksgiving (27th Nov) which departs at around 9 PM. I am usually in the (any) airport an hour before any (domestic/international) flight. However, I have never flown around holidays. Should I be factoring in Thanksgiving rush and arrive earlier? Does anyone have experience with this?
Best Answer
In large Airports (and ATL is a Large airport), I usually am there much more than an hour in advance. There are too many things that could go wrong, including, but not limited to:
- Increased number of Travelers on and around Holiday Dates
- Winter weather (ATL isn't too bad with this, in my experiences.)
- Longer lines in Security
- Longer lines everywhere.
I have flown through both ATL and LAX on and around Thanksgiving and Christmas Before, (Last year, in fact,) and I am glad that I arrived early. Because I fly for business, but still ride coach, I usually like to show up 2 hours in advance. That is both my opinion, and my company policy, and it has never failed me. For me, it's not just about being able to run and catch my gate, its about being there a little early so I dont have to sit on the floor or stand while I wait at my gate. Just personal preference!
Good luck with your flight, and enjoy your Thanksgiving!
Pictures about "Should I factor in Thanksgiving rush at Atlanta airport?"
Is Atlanta airport busy on Thanksgiving Day?
Airport officials report last year about 1.6 million people traveled through the airport during Thanksgiving week. This week the airport is expecting many more travelers, 2.2 million. \u201cIt's been very good, very fun, nothing crazy, got my usual Starbucks, got on the plane,\u201d said traveler Lillie Pannell.How crowded are airports on Thanksgiving Day?
The TSA expects to screen about 20 million air passengers during the Thanksgiving travel period, the most since 2019 when nearly 26 million Americans were on the move at that time. On Tuesday, the agency screened about 2.21 million U.S. air passengers, the sixth consecutive day with checkpoint volume topping 2 million.Is it less busy to fly on Thanksgiving Day?
Worst Thanksgiving Travel Dates for 2021It is one of the most popular days of the year to fly, and it is expensive. Additionally, airports are always packed, so it is an extra stressful experience. Avoid the Sunday after Thanksgiving for your return flight. Most people fly that day to get home before the workweek.How early should I get to the airport on Thanksgiving Day?
Airlines recommend arriving at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.Atlanta Airport Train Ride @ Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International (4K)
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Images: Phil, Seng Lam Ho, Flickr, August de Richelieu