LOS ANGELES (KNX) — As the second pandemic year comes to a close, more Americans are returning to airports, train stations and freeways to get to their holiday gatherings. Travel is increasing so quickly, that the Transportation Security Administration expects numbers to be back to pre-pandemic levels this Winter.
“We see a strengthening in the airline travel industry toward pre-pandemic levels and our goal is to ensure [passengers] have a safe and secure flight,” TSA Administrator David Pekosk said in a statement.
The high volume of travelers is exhibited in the numbers collected after Thanksgiving 2021 — where over the course of 10 days more than 21 million Americans were screened at TSA checkpoints across the U.S.
Due to the extreme numbers expected TSA is encouraging travelers to enroll in TSA PreCheck to avoid lines and lingering in large groups. The application is $85 for a five-year enrollment.
“In November, 94% of members waited less than five minutes,” TSA said in a statement. “Those who apply [soon] will likely have their application accepted within five days, just in time for the holidays.
With or without the PreCheck, all travelers are encouraged to be flexible this holiday season — as everyone will be adjusting to the pre-pandemic rush. They are also encouraged to schedule travel outside of rush hour, which is typically between 5 and 7 a.m. and 4 and 6 p.m.
Since March, TSA said it has “dramatically modified” airport security checkpoints to improve social distancing and reduce physical contact. The operations continue and all who travel through U.S. airports will be required to wear a face covering in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
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