As the holiday season approaches, a significant increase in travel across the United States is expected, with estimates suggesting a bustling period for both roadways and airports. According to Action News Jax, more than 7 million Floridians are set to travel longer distances, while over 380,000 will take to the skies. Nationwide, the travel numbers are even more staggering, with Triple AAA forecasting 3 million more travelers this holiday season compared to last year. Holiday-goers are advised to brace themselves for extended delays, as the president of Triple AAA has warned of longer lines at airports and heavier traffic on the roads.
Moreover, the increase in travel activity has led to Florida Highway Patrol troopers bolstering their presence on Northeast Florida roads. An emphasis on safety is clear, with reports of "DUI-focused wolf packs" patrolling for drunk drivers, as a spokesperson for the Florida Highway Patrol indicated a surge in hazardous driving behaviors during the holiday season. In a statement obtained by Action News Jax, FHP spokesperson Dylan Bryan highlighted the risks of not only drunk but also distracted and drowsy driving, stressing that "being sleepy behind the wheel can be just as deadly as drunk driving," as per Action News Jax.
Meanwhile, the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester Airport has also geared up for a busy holiday travel period. According to a report by Spectrum Local News, the airport director Andy Moore has ensured that measures are in place to handle the anticipated uptick in passengers smoothly. This year, the longer winter break for students means that travel will be more spread out, which may alleviate some of the congestion typically seen during shorter holiday periods. AAA's prediction of close to 120 million U.S. residents traveling at least 50 miles between today and New Year's Day supports the forecast of a busy—but manageable—travel season.
Travelers need to plan and prepare accordingly. Action News Jax reports that drivers in Florida will see increased highway patrol efforts beginning Friday evening, while Spectrum Local News relays the airport's recommendation for travelers to arrive at least an hour and a half before their flight, especially if checking a piece of luggage is part of their plans. This advice is echoed in the report from NewsNation, which notes that nearly 120 million people are projected to be on the move over the Christmas and New Year holidays, with the American Automobile Association estimating that this will surpass a previous record set in 2019 by 64,000 travelers.
