If you’ve flown recently, you’ve probably noticed the bustling airports and long security lines. It’s not your imagination—2024 is shaping up to be a record-breaking year for air travel. With more travelers passing through TSA checkpoints than in 2023, airports are busier than ever.
Whether you’re planning your next vacation or a quick weekend getaway, understanding how these rising travel numbers impact your trip can save you time and stress. Let’s take a look at how travel in 2024 compares to last year and how you can navigate this surge like a pro.
More Travelers, More Lines: Why TSA Numbers Matter
So why should you care about TSA’s checkpoint data? Because the more travelers there are, the longer those security lines—and the more crowded airports can feel. In 2024, TSA has been screening an average of 2.7 million passengers daily, up from 2.4 million in 2023. That may not seem like much, but those extra 200,000 passengers can make all the difference between breezing through security or waiting in a snaking line that eats into your precious pre-flight time. If you’ve got a trip on the horizon, these numbers should prompt you to arrive early and plan ahead.
Holiday Travel in 2024: Expect Record-Breaking Crowds
If you’re one of those travelers who loves to take a trip around the holidays, buckle up! The TSA’s checkpoint data shows that holiday weekends in 2024—like Memorial Day and the 4th of July—broke pre-pandemic records for air travel. Over 2.8 million travelers were screened by TSA on the Friday before Memorial Day alone, marking the busiest day since 2019. This trend is expected to continue into the fall and winter holidays, so if you’re planning to fly during Thanksgiving or Christmas, prepare for packed airports and make those travel plans early.
Weekend Getaways? You’re Not Alone!
Looking to sneak in a weekend trip? You’re not the only one. TSA data shows that Fridays and Sundays are the busiest travel days of the week, with over 2.5 million travelers passing through checkpoints on average. This surge in short trips means that if you’re planning a Friday departure, it’s best to arrive at the airport earlier than usual. For those looking for a less stressful travel day, consider booking midweek flights when TSA lines tend to be shorter, and you’ll have a better chance at snagging cheaper fares too!
Business Travel: Slowly Making a Comeback
If you’re traveling for business, you might have noticed that airport lounges are getting busier again. While business travel still hasn’t fully recovered to pre-pandemic levels, it’s picking up, particularly in major hubs like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles. For business travelers who need to keep things efficient, enrolling in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR is more valuable than ever. Skipping those long security lines could mean the difference between arriving stressed or strolling calmly to your gate with time to spare.
International Travel: More Crowded Than Ever
Planning an international adventure? Get ready for crowded terminals. International travel has seen one of the biggest rebounds in 2024, with airports like JFK, Miami, and LAX showing over 10% increase in TSA screenings compared to 2023. As more countries continue to relax their entry restrictions, Americans are booking flights to Europe, Mexico, and beyond in droves. If you’ve got international travel on your mind, consider flying during off-peak seasons to avoid the worst of the crowds—and keep your passport handy at security.
How to Beat the Crowds: Travel Smarter, Not Harder
With travel numbers booming, here are a few tips to help you glide through TSA checkpoints like a seasoned traveler:
- Arrive Early, Especially for International Flights: With more passengers, security lines are longer. Give yourself at least 2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international trips.
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck or CLEAR: If you travel frequently, these programs are your best bet for speeding through security without having to remove your shoes or unpack your electronics.
- Avoid Peak Travel Days: Whenever possible, try to book flights for Tuesdays or Wednesdays, when airports tend to be less crowded. Fridays and Sundays are the busiest.
- Check TSA Wait Times in Real-Time: Use apps like MyTSA to check security line wait times at your departure airport so you can adjust your schedule accordingly.
Looking Ahead to 2025: What to Expect
With 2024 showing higher TSA checkpoint numbers than last year, 2025 is shaping up to be even busier. As international travel continues to rise and leisure travelers embrace more frequent trips, airports are likely to remain packed. If you’re planning a major trip next year, consider booking flights as early as possible to lock in lower prices and better seat options. Busy travel seasons like summer and holidays are expected to be even more crowded, so flexibility and smart planning will be your keys to a smoother experience.
The Future of Airport Security
As travel demand grows, TSA is working on new ways to keep lines moving. From automated screening lanes to biometric technology, airports are investing in systems that promise to cut down on wait times. Keep an eye out for more TSA PreCheck lanes and enhancements like facial recognition to speed up the security process. But in the meantime, be sure to pack your patience—2025 could bring even bigger crowds.
Your TSA Game Plan for 2024 and Beyond
Whether you’re flying for business or pleasure, the surge in TSA checkpoint travel numbers is a clear sign that airports are only getting busier. By staying informed, planning ahead, and using the right travel tools, you can navigate the increase in travelers without losing your cool. Remember, travel is all about the journey—and with the right preparation, you can spend more time enjoying your trip and less time standing in line.
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Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Matthew Turner.
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For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
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