TSA warns this year will be the ‘busiest summer travel season ever’

EXCITED for your summer travels? Strap in because so is everyone else.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has warned that this year will be the “busiest summer travel season ever.”

The season will begin on Memorial Day weekend and end on Labor Day.

Starting May 23 through the 29, the agency anticipates screening over 18 million passengers and crewmembers.

The estimate is an increase of around 6.4% compared to the same weekend in 2023.

Those looking to travel on that weekend should avoid departing on Friday, which the TSA expects to be the busiest day of the weekend.

“In close coordination with the airport, airline, and travel partners, we are more than ready to handle this summer’s increased travel volumes,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske.

“We are also continuing to deploy state-of-the-art checkpoint technology that increases security effectiveness and efficiency and enhances the passenger experience.

“Our retention and recruitment numbers are the highest they’ve ever been.”

TSA has shared a few travel tips passengers can follow for the best possible experience.

First, travelers should be mindful of new checkpoint technology.

TSA will utilize an upgraded version of Credential Authentication Technology, which will confirm the authenticity of a passenger’s identification credentials with a camera feature.

Along with their flight details and a pre-screening status, travelers may be asked to voluntarily take a real-time photo of themselves to verify their identities.

Those who do not want their photo taken may ask the Transportation Security Officer for a manual ID check without losing their place in line.

Many airports have also upgraded their systems with Computed Tomography units.

These CT units have improved scanning and threat detection abilities for carry-on bags, reducing the need to physically search luggage.

Travelers screened in lanes with CT units can expect to leave their liquids and laptops in their bags.

They will still, however, be expected to place their bags into a bin for proper screening.

TSA has deployed more than 820 CT units to more than 240 airports in the country.

TSA also encourages those who travel with firearms to properly prepare by securing them in their checked baggage, packing them unloaded, locking them in a hard-sided case, and declaring them to the airline when checking in with their airline.

As always, the 3-1-1 rule applies to liquids. Any liquids, sunscreens, and alcohol over 3.4 ounces must be packed in a checked bag.

Liquids are allowed in carry-on bags as long as they are 3.4 ounces or less and placed in one quart-sized bag, with each passenger limited to one quart-sized bag.