SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS RADIO) – As the summer season commences, people are likely to be traveling more than ever.
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However, while people flood to the airports, they might be noticing longer lines than usual.
Like many other industries since the beginning of the pandemic started, there's currently quite a shortage of airline and travel personnel, which could affect people's travel plans in the coming weeks.
"Now we have a pinch point, where we literally don't have enough pilots to fly the aircraft in the sky," said Jennifer Pickerel, Vice President of Aviation Personnel International, an aviation staffing and recruitment company.
But it's not just a pilot shortage.
The entire hospitality, transportation and travel industries are seeing shortages that'll affect two of summer travelers' most valuable elements –
time and money.
"Aviation is suffering just like, or even more so, as in hospitality in general," she said. "It's just a vicious cycle simply because there aren't enough to go around."
Due to staffing shortages, travelers should expect longer wait times to get through TSA, get coffee at the gate and as well to get bags at baggage claim.
According to Pickerel, the industry is having to step up to attract and keep people working back in airports post-pandemic.
In the meantime, those planning on traveling should plan accordingly – and exercise patience.
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