by Donald Wood
Last updated: 10:10 AM ET, Wed November 14, 2018
Industry trade organization Airlines for America (A4A) revealed record-breaking projections for the United States airline industry during the 12-day Thanksgiving travel period.
A4A officials said a record 30.6 million passengers will travel on U.S. carriers this Thanksgiving, an increase from the estimated 29 million passengers during the 2017 travel period.
The projections translate to an estimated 2.55 million passengers per day, up 137,000 per day from last year. In response, airlines are adding 158,000 more seats each day, totaling 2.94 million seats available to flyers every day.
"The busy holiday travel season kicks off this week, and it is thanks to incredibly accessible and affordable flight options that more travelers than ever before are visiting loved ones, wrapping up year-end business or enjoying a vacation this Thanksgiving," A4A vice president John Heimlich said in a statement. "U.S. airlines are investing heavily in their employees, products and facilities to make air travel this holiday season enjoyable for all passengers."
As for the busiest day of the 2018 Thanksgiving air travel period, which runs from November 16 through November 27, A4A revealed an estimated 3.06 million passengers will take to the skies Sunday, November 25.
The busiest expected travel days in ranked order are Sunday, November 25; Wednesday, November 21; and Friday, November 16. As for the lightest travel day during the period, it is expected to be Thanksgiving Day, November 22.
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