NEW YORK — Millions of Americans crowded airports and highways on Thursday as the Independence Day holiday travel period accelerated, with transportation agencies and travel organizations warning of heavy congestion amid record-high demand fueled by the U.S. 250th anniversary celebrations and the FIFA World Cup.
AAA projects that about 72.2 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home between June 27 and July 5, surpassing last year's record and marking the busiest Fourth of July travel period on record, although growth has slowed compared with recent years. The organization estimates that roughly 61.4 million travelers will drive, while about 5.85 million will fly domestically.
The Transportation Security Administration said Thursday is expected to be the busiest airport day of the holiday period, with more than 3 million passengers anticipated at security checkpoints nationwide. The agency said it had fully staffed checkpoints and urged travelers to arrive early and allow extra time for screening.
Major airports across the United States reported elevated passenger volumes as airlines prepared for one of the busiest weekends of the summer travel season. In the Chicago area, officials expect nearly 2 million passengers to pass through O'Hare International Airport and Midway Airport during the extended holiday period, despite ongoing construction projects and higher travel costs.
Road travel remained the dominant mode of transportation despite gasoline prices reaching four-year highs, according to AAA. The group said driving continues to be the most economical option for many families, even as rental car rates and other travel expenses have increased.
Traffic analytics firm INRIX and AAA warned motorists to expect significant delays on major interstate highways serving popular vacation destinations and metropolitan areas. Congestion was forecast to peak on several corridors Thursday afternoon and continue through the holiday weekend before easing after Sunday.
Travel demand has also been boosted by nationwide celebrations marking the country's 250th anniversary and by FIFA World Cup matches taking place in several U.S. host cities, contributing to strong bookings for hotels, vacation rentals and transportation services despite higher airfares and fuel costs.
Transportation officials continued urging travelers to monitor flight and traffic conditions, arrive early for departures and remain prepared for delays as the holiday rush continues through the weekend.
