The holiday travel season in the U.S reportedly seems to be exceptionally busy this year with millions of Americans setting off on journeys. The projections from AAA (American Automobile Association) show a significant increase with about 2.8 million passengers anticipated to fly daily during the holidays. This reflects a 16% increase from the previous year.
This might mark the return for airlines to a pre-covid era of bookings and travel. The pandemic had taken a huge hit on the industry with several layoffs.
Record Numbers of Airline Bookings this Holidays
The enthusiasm for air travel during this holiday season is experiencing a rapid increase with Thanksgiving week bookings reportedly 35% higher than the pre-pandemic period. Now, with the Happy Holidays season setting off, United Airlines is slated to offer 3,500 flights daily in December which marks the highest number since the the pandemic. Also, the destinations that are in particular focus are the sun and ski destinations such as Florida, Las Vegas, and Colorado.
Despite adverse weather conditions, particularly rain in Southern California, airlines have expressed confidence in managing the rise in demand. This year was also particularly successful for the airline industry during the Thanksgiving period with minimal delays and cancellations.
The airline industry is getting ready for potentially record-breaking numbers anticipating over 39 million passengers over the two-week winter holiday. This is a huge surge from the previous year.
United CEO Scott Kirby emphasizes the readiness of airlines to handle the holiday rush and has prepared with surging staffing levels and maintaining reserves especially for flight crews to accommodate peak demand periods. The report highlights improved results compared to the previous year, signaling enhanced performance by airlines after facing pressure and scrutiny.
While air travel seems to be largely successful this year, there have been concerns arising for those choosing road travel. With rain already falling in California and storms predicted in the South, road conditions may be less than ideal. AAA has estimated nearly 104 million individuals hitting the road, emphasizing the importance of precautionary measures.
The report concludes with practical advice for air travelers, recommending extra time, particularly during the morning hours, when the busiest airports like Atlanta, Denver, Dallas, and Los Angeles are expected to experience peak congestion. Overall, the reports provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and preparations associated with the upcoming holiday travel season.
The enthusiasm for air travel during the upcoming holiday season is experiencing a rapid increase with Thanksgiving week bookings reportedly 35% higher than the pre-pandemic period. United Airlines is slated to offer 3,500 flights daily in December which marks the highest number since the the pandemic. Also, the destinations that are in particular focus are the sun and ski destinations such as Florida, Las Vegas, and Colorado.
Price Hike as a result of a massive number of bookings
However, this increased demand is leading to new potential challenges for travelers. Short-term rental rates have risen with the average nightly rate jumping from $332 in 2019 to nearly $600 presently. 
Airfares are also soaring and industry experts predict up to a 40% price hike for bookings after Halloween. Last-minute bookings may also experience an additional 25% cost increase.
While major airlines still require employees to be vaccinated, there is no such requirement for air travelers. This has led to discussions about potential vaccination mandates. Health experts advocate for broader vaccination coverage to facilitate a return to normalcy.
Is Starbucks experiencing a lower turnout?
On the other hand, Starbucks is not experiencing “happy holidays” like the other business. Starbucks has been under controversy as a result of the Israel-Hamas conflict in West Asia. It is experiencing a boycott from some customers as a result of its non-stance regarding the conflict. Furthermore, it has also drawn flak as a result of preventing its workers unions from taking a stance on the issue.
Every holiday season, Starbucks launches special holiday drinks but this year, Starbucks seems to be making more efforts than usual to attract customers which is signaling that the company might have taken a hit. Starbucks has reportedly been offering drinks at half the rates on Thursdays and making other offers to attract clientele.
Most travel, hospitality, and restaurant-related businesses are experiencing profits this year. The holiday season is a period of gains for businesses. Potential travelers should keep in mind the rush and make their bookings in advance. This year, however, the rush has increased while managing to be smooth without unexpected delays for travelers as well.
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