Trade group Airlines for America predicts a busy festive holiday priod ahead with 45.2 million travelers expected to fly on US airlines.
That represents a 3.5% increase on last year for the 21-day holiday period starting in December 16.
A4A says Thursday, December 22, and Friday, December 23 are likely to be busiest while Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day will be lightest for passenger movements at the nation’s airports.
"An improved economy and reduced airfares remain the driving force behind the growth seen in air travel," said John Heimlich, chief economist for Airlines for America.
Airlines are adding nearly 100,000 extra seats during the period to meet demand.
A4A said Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson, Chicago O’Hare and Los Angeles will be the busiest air hubs.
