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AAA predicts big decline in holiday travel
AAA Travel is expecting more Americans to stay home this holiday season.
It is forecasting at least 34 million fewer travelers on the roads and at airports compared to last year’s holiday season as more people heed guidance from the CDC to avoid unnecessary travel.
"While Thanksgiving is traditionally spent gathering with friends and family, the year-end holidays are when Americans often venture out for longer, more elaborate vacations. That will not be the case this year," said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President, AAA Travel.
Although as many as 84.5 million Americans may travel between 23 December and 3 January 2021, it marks a 29% decline compared to a year ago.
Of those who do travel, the vast majority will go by car.
Only about 3% will take a plane, AAA says.
A significant number who would normally fly are either staying at home or opting to drive this year.
AAA forecasts only about 2.9 million air travelers which is nearly 60% down on 2019.
Written by Ray Montgomery, US Editor
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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