Dallas airports brace for heavy holiday travel across North Texas

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is preparing for a surge of holiday travelers, with nearly 5 million passengers expected to fly through the airport between Christmas and early January.
Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is preparing for a surge of holiday travelers, with nearly 5 million passengers expected to fly through the airport between Christmas and early January. Photo credit Jose Rodriguez Gil/Getty

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport is preparing for a surge of holiday travelers, with nearly 5 million passengers expected to fly through the airport between Christmas and early January.

Airport officials say the busiest travel days are today through Monday, followed by another peak on December 26 and 27.

Dallas Love Field is also expecting packed terminals as holiday travelers take advantage of Southwest Airlines’ extensive schedule and shorter-haul routes. While Love Field handles far fewer passengers than DFW, officials routinely urge travelers to arrive early during peak holiday periods to account for long security lines and limited curbside space.

Roadways across North Texas are expected to be crowded as well, especially near major airports and along key highways leading into Dallas and Fort Worth. Transportation officials have warned that congestion will be heaviest during morning and late afternoon travel windows, particularly on peak flying days.

Public transit agencies are encouraging travelers to consider rail options to avoid traffic. DART’s Orange Line continues to provide direct service to DFW Airport, while rail and bus connections also serve Love Field, offering an alternative to driving and airport parking during the holiday rush.

Airport and transportation officials say planning ahead, allowing extra travel time, and checking flight and transit updates before leaving home can help travelers navigate what is shaping up to be one of the busiest holiday travel seasons in years.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: Jose Rodriguez Gil/Getty