The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is preparing for a significant increase in air travel this summer, marking the busiest period in 15 years. A peak of nearly 54,000 flights is expected this Thursday during the Memorial Day weekend. Travelers are advised to check fly.faa.gov for airport status updates and visit the PackSafe page for guidelines on permitted items.
On April 17, 2025, the FAA recorded its busiest day with over 54,000 flights. The agency anticipates further growth throughout the summer, particularly at the end of July, with six more days expected to exceed 54,000 flights by late August. Thursdays are projected to be especially busy.
To alleviate delays in Florida's airspace, new ultra-high sectors have been established at the Jacksonville Air Route Traffic Control Center. This development aims to accommodate more aircraft and reduce delays.
Weather remains a primary cause of flight delays. The FAA’s Joint Air Traffic Operations Center collaborates with airlines to minimize weather-related disruptions while ensuring public safety.
At Newark Liberty International Airport, arrivals and departures have slowed due to runway construction and staffing issues at Philadelphia TRACON. The FAA is working on improving operational reliability by enhancing technology and increasing air traffic controller staffing.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has prioritized hiring more air traffic controllers and developing a new air traffic system. Information about these initiatives can be found in the FAA's latest package aimed at strengthening the workforce and modernizing infrastructure.
For ongoing updates, travelers can subscribe to "The Summer Slice," a weekly email providing forecasts, technology advancements, safety initiatives, explainer videos, and myth-busting content related to summer travel.
