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Record Summer Air Travel: What to Expect
As the summer travel season kicks off in the United States, air travel is expected to reach new heights. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has reported a record 2.99 million individuals screened on June 23, surpassing the previous record set on May 24. With over three million travelers expected to be screened on Friday leading into Independence Day week, the TSA is gearing up for a record-breaking July 4 holiday.
Between June 28 and July 8, the TSA projects to screen more than 32 million travelers, a 5% year-over-year increase for the season. This surge in air travel comes amidst various challenges faced by airlines, including supply chain disruptions, regulatory issues, Boeing safety concerns impacting new plane deliveries, air traffic controller shortages, extreme weather delays, and escalating costs affecting carrier profitability.
Despite these challenges, airlines like Delta Air Lines ($DAL) and American Airlines ($AAL) are striving for operational excellence. Delta's CEO commended the airline's exceptional performance, emphasizing reliability, while American Airlines is prioritizing reliability amidst factors like weather and air traffic control challenges.
The Federal Aviation Administration has highlighted a shortage of up to 3,000 air traffic controllers, posing risks for flight coordination, especially in high-density areas like New York City and Florida. Extreme weather conditions, including heatwaves and storms, can lead to technical failures and flight disruptions. To mitigate these risks, travelers are advised to consider early morning or late-night flights during extreme temperatures.
Industry experts note that airlines and airports seem better prepared this year compared to previous instances of major disruptions. United Airlines ($UAL) and American Airlines are anticipating increased summer travel, with the latter focusing on enhancing reliability amid challenges.
Efforts to improve air traffic control coordination are underway, with collaboration between federal and local towers, including the military, to manage increased air traffic. While airfares are currently lower due to various factors, such as reduced fleet capacity and production delays, prices may rise in the future due to increasing maintenance costs and reduced efficiency of aging aircraft.
Despite potential challenges, travelers can benefit from current lower fares and should consider signing up for airline apps and programs like TSA PreCheck for smoother travel experiences. Keeping informed and prepared is key to navigating the busy summer travel season.
Original Article: https://www.cnbc.com/2024/06/28/record-summer-air-travel-is-starting-and-flight-hassles-and-delays.html
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