UPDATE: The holiday travel rush has officially begun at San Antonio International Airport, with officials reporting a significant increase in travelers from Saturday, November 22 through Monday, December 1. Authorities estimate an overwhelming 250,000 to 350,000 travelers will pass through the airport during this ten-day span, with the busiest days expected to be the Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.
In a statement, Ana Flores, a spokeswoman for the airport, emphasized the need for travelers to prepare adequately. “We advise passengers to arrive at least two hours early,” she said, highlighting the holiday rush’s impact. She also urged travelers to stay connected with their airlines, as potential weather disruptions across the country could lead to delays.
Meanwhile, the American Automobile Association (AAA) reports that nearly 6 million people are anticipated to travel within Texas for Thanksgiving, marking nearly a 1% increase from last year and up 4% from 2019. The majority of these travelers—over 5 million—will be taking to the roads, while approximately 328,000 will opt for air travel, reflecting a 1% rise compared to last year and a remarkable 12% increase since before the pandemic in 2019.
In addition, around 140,000 travelers are expected to utilize other forms of transportation such as buses, trains, and boats. This segment has seen an 8% increase from 2024 and a staggering 27% increase from 2019, indicating a significant shift in travel trends.
With the holiday rush in full swing, travelers are reminded to be vigilant and prepared. For those flying, packing efficiently and staying informed about airline updates will be crucial to navigating the busy travel season.
As this holiday season unfolds, many will be reuniting with loved ones, making these travel numbers not just statistics, but reflections of cherished moments for families across Texas.
Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to monitor the situation.
