More than 3 million people passed through U.S. airport security on Sunday, the first time that number of passengers have been screened in a single day as travel surges, according to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration.
The record, which was widely predicted to happen at some point over the July Four holiday weekend, topped the June 23 mark of more than 2.99 million screened passengers. Eight of the 10 busiest days in TSA’s history have come this year as the number of travelers tops pre-pandemic levels.
TSA was created after the terror attacks on Sept. 11, 2001, and replaced a collection of private security companies that were hired by airlines. The agency operates under the Department of Homeland Security, which said that agents on Sunday checked 35 passengers every second.
While Americans continue to grapple with inflation, travel costs including airline tickets and hotel prices have eased significantly from a year ago. Hotel rooms were 1.2% cheaper in May compared with a year ago, according to recent government inflation data. Those costs have been trending lower since the beginning of the year.
While most U.S. airlines lost money in the first quarter — traditionally the weakest time of year for travel — they were all expecting a summer of full planes.
This spring, American and Southwest said they expected solid second quarter profits. They joined Delta Air Lines and United Airlines in giving an upbeat outlook for the April-through-June period, which includes the start of peak season for carriers.
Delta reports its second-quarter earnings on Thursday, with analysts predicting sales of $15.5 billion, nearly $1 billion more than the same period a year ago. Next week, United and American issue their quarterly results, with Wall Street forecasting higher revenue from a year ago for both carriers.
Increasingly full planes since the pandemic shut travel down four years ago has brought some downside for airlines: complaints.
The Transportation Department said last week that it received nearly 97,000 complaints in 2023, up from about 86,000 the year before. The department said there were so many complaints that it took until July to sort through the filings and compile the figures.
That’s the highest number of complaints about airlines since 2020, when airlines were slow to give customers refunds after the coronavirus pandemic shut down air travel.
The Transportation Department said the increase in complaints was partly the result of more travelers knowing about their rights and the ability to file a complaint. Airlines receive many more complaints from travelers who don’t know how or don’t bother to complain to the government, but the carriers don’t release those numbers.
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Associated Press Airlines Writer David Koenig contributed to this story.
On a recent day, the United States Transportation Security Administration (TSA) reported a record-breaking number of travelers passing through airport security checkpoints. Over 3 million individuals were screened in a single day, marking a significant milestone in air travel history.
The surge in travelers can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, the summer travel season, and pent-up demand from individuals who have been eager to resume their travel plans after a year of lockdowns and restrictions.
The TSA has been working tirelessly to accommodate the increase in passenger volume, implementing additional security lanes, deploying more staff, and utilizing advanced technology to expedite the screening process. Despite the challenges posed by the unprecedented number of travelers, the agency has managed to maintain efficiency and ensure the safety and security of all passengers.
The record-breaking number of travelers passing through airport security checkpoints is a positive sign for the aviation industry, signaling a gradual return to normalcy and a resurgence in air travel. It also reflects the resilience and adaptability of both travelers and airport staff in navigating the challenges brought about by the pandemic.
As more individuals feel comfortable traveling again and as vaccination rates continue to rise, it is expected that air travel will continue to rebound and reach pre-pandemic levels. This is good news for airlines, airports, and the overall economy, as the aviation industry plays a crucial role in driving economic growth and connecting people and businesses across the globe.
While the record-breaking number of travelers passing through US airport security in a single day is certainly a cause for celebration, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of adhering to health and safety guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Travelers are encouraged to continue wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and following all recommended protocols to ensure a safe and enjoyable travel experience for themselves and their fellow passengers.
In conclusion, the record-breaking number of travelers passing through US airport security checkpoints is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the aviation industry in the face of unprecedented challenges. As air travel continues to rebound and passenger volumes increase, it is crucial for travelers to remain vigilant and prioritize safety to ensure a smooth and successful travel experience.
