As Always, Plan Ahead... And Be Ready For Change-Ups

The Air Transport Association of America lobbying group for most US airlines, said this week it expects full planes during the upcoming 2008 Thanksgiving holiday season, despite a 10 percent year-over-year decrease in the number of passengers traveling on US carriers.

Based on sample data, the three busiest travel days surrounding Thanksgiving Day are expected to be Sunday, November 30; Monday, December 1; and Wednesday, November 26, respectively. On these days, ATA projects that planes will be, on average, close to 90 percent full.

"Despite the expected decline in passengers this Thanksgiving holiday travel season -- the first such decline in seven years -- Thanksgiving remains the busiest travel time of the year for airlines," said ATA President and CEO James C. May. "And make no mistake -- the airports will be busy and many flights will be 100 percent full."

May added that the softer economy is having an impact on consumer buying decisions at the same time that carriers have cut back their schedules in response to economic pressures. "With fewer flights operating, that should provide some relief to the air traffic management system. I am confident that with a little good weather, complemented by the shared commitment of airlines, airports and our government to improve on-time performance, Thanksgiving travel should be safe and enjoyable," said May.

ATA said it hopes the government will once again open up military airspace to help further ease congestion, as it did last year. In the event of system delays, airlines will keep travelers informed of flight and schedule changes; travelers are encouraged to sign up with their airline to receive automated travel notifications delivered to their cell phone or wireless device.

To help make the airport experience as convenient as possible, ATA encourages passengers to allow plenty of time for checking in and for security screening at the airport, and to familiarize themselves with the list of TSA permitted and prohibited items and under what circumstance permitted items may be carried onboard.

FMI: www.airlines.org