Key Takeaways
- United Airlines is preparing for its busiest Thanksgiving travel season on record, with nearly six million passengers expected to fly globally between November 17 and November 29.
- Denver International Airport (DIA) is a key hub for United, and the airline anticipates it will be one of the busiest airports during the holiday period.
- Despite the possibility of a government shutdown, United executives are not concerned about operational disruptions, stating that essential travel personnel will remain on the job.
- The airline has hired thousands of new employees this year to manage the increased passenger volume and ensure a smoother travel experience.
A Record-Breaking Holiday Rush
United Airlines is bracing for an unprecedented surge in holiday travelers this Thanksgiving. The airline projects it will fly nearly 6 million passengers during the peak travel window, marking its busiest Thanksgiving in history. Denver International Airport (DIA), a major hub for the carrier, is expected to see a significant portion of this traffic.
The Sunday following Thanksgiving is anticipated to be the single busiest day for air travel, as millions of passengers head home after the holiday. This surge reflects a continued, robust demand for air travel that has defined the post-pandemic landscape.
Government Shutdown Concerns Minimized
With the threat of a potential government shutdown looming, many travelers have expressed concern about possible disruptions. However, United Airlines has moved to quell these fears. Airline officials have stated they do not expect a shutdown to impact their operations.
Key travel-related government employees, such as Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agents and air traffic controllers, are deemed essential personnel and would be required to work even during a shutdown. This ensures that critical airport functions like security screening and flight management will continue, preventing the widespread cancellations and delays that would otherwise occur.
How United is Preparing for the Influx
To handle the massive influx of passengers, United has been on a hiring spree. The airline has added 2,400 new employees in Denver alone this year, including pilots, flight attendants, and ground crew. This strategic staffing increase is aimed at improving efficiency and customer service during the high-pressure holiday season.
Advice for Holiday Travelers
For those flying out of DIA or any other busy airport this Thanksgiving, the advice remains consistent: plan ahead and arrive early. United recommends passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international departures.
Travelers can also streamline their experience by using the United app to check in, monitor flight status, and track their luggage. With airports expected to be crowded, leveraging technology and giving yourself extra time are the best strategies for a stress-free start to your holiday.