Photo: Shutterstock The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing for its busiest Independence Day travel period in 15 years, with 52,480 flights expected to operate on Thursday, July 2, the agency's busiest day of the holiday travel rush.
According to the FAA, air traffic controllers are forecast to manage over 52,000 flights throughout the day as millions of Americans head to destinations across the United States for the July 4 holiday.
On Friday, the agency expects to operate 51,322 forecasted flights, followed by a drop to 39,698 on Saturday, the 4th of July, with numbers going up again to 41,982 on Sunday, 50,470 on Monday, and 47,271 on Tuesday.
The agency is advising passengers to arrive at airports early, allow extra time for security screening and check their flight status with their airline before leaving for the airport.
The strong travel demand highlights another record summer for U.S. aviation, with airlines and airports preparing for one of the busiest holiday periods of the year.
Travelers can also find additional summer travel guidance on the FAA's website.