UPDATE: The U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has just reported a staggering 3.13 million airline passengers screened on Sunday, November 26, 2023, marking a record high for a single day. This surge in travel coincided with the peak of the Thanksgiving travel season, showing that Americans are flying even amid challenging weather conditions in the U.S. Midwest.
The previous record was set earlier this year on June 22, when 3.09 million passengers passed through TSA checkpoints. This sudden spike in air travel comes as the trade group Airlines for America predicts that U.S. airlines will carry 31 million passengers over the 11-day travel period ending Monday.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has also forecasted that there will be more than 360,000 flights during the nine days ending December 2, the highest volume seen in 15 years. This dramatic increase in passenger numbers and flights highlights a significant rebound in air travel, particularly after the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Before 2024, the TSA had only screened over 3 million passengers on two occasions. However, in 2025 alone, the agency has surpassed this milestone on eight separate days, reflecting the growing demand for air travel. The TSA’s workforce has expanded to nearly 60,000 employees, a response to the soaring air travel numbers in recent years. Notably, the TSA screened a record 904 million passengers in 2024, up 5% from the previous year.
However, not all airlines are operating smoothly. JetBlue Airways has reported ongoing challenges due to a necessary software retrofit for its Airbus A320 fleet, prompted by a vulnerability linked to solar flares. This issue has resulted in additional flight cancellations, with JetBlue canceling another 20 flights on Monday as it works to address the mandated upgrades.
As air travel continues to recover and grow, travelers are advised to expect busy airports and potential delays. The TSA encourages passengers to arrive early to ensure a smooth travel experience. With millions of Americans taking to the skies, the focus remains on safety and efficiency as the holiday season progresses.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as the travel season unfolds.
