Air Travel Expects Disorder Over Fourth of July as Over 18 Million Passengers Intend to Fly
Catching Flights This 4th of July? Here's the Lowdown on Airport Security!
Get ready to kick off the barbecues and fireworks a tad early because an astounding 18.5 million jet-setting travellers are anticipated to take to the skies during the 4th of July holiday. Folks, that's a whole lotta sky-high fun! On July 6 alone, approximately 2.9 million passengers are projected to fly!
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) assures us they're all systems go, and they're gearing up to screen that mammoth number of passengers. They're even approaching the busiest day ever recorded by the agency, which saw nearly 3.1 million passengers screened on June 22.
As Interim TSA Administrator Ha Nguyen McNeill so aptly puts it:
"We're doing everything in our power to ensure our airport security checkpoints are fully staffed and ready to tackle the torrent of passengers. We're enhancing security and aiming to amp up the passenger experience, especially for families. So, buckle up, people! Be patient, and remember, we're here to treat you right."
Between Tuesday, July 1 and Monday, July 7, those 18.5 million passengers better make sure they have their REAL ID or a REAL ID-compliant document (not your Costco card, people). Now, if you're not too keen on standing in long lines, you can sign up for TSA PreCheck. Out of the 99% of travelers who've done so, a whopping 99% of them have blazed through security in under 10 minutes, making it a much swifter alternative to the standard screening process. And, travelling with tot-sized tots? Fret not, they can tag along through TSA PreCheck if they're under 12 years old.
Don't forget, we all know how spectacular 4th of July fireworks shows can be, but people are forbidden from packing fireworks in both carry-on and checked baggage. To avoid any unpleasant surprises, brush up on what you can bring aboard by giving the TSA's search bar function a whirl.
Planning on staying grounded this upcoming holiday weekend? Fret not, we've got your back! We've lined up the best ways to celebrate summer in New York.
And, with five significant changes to TSA regulations set to kick off in 2025, here's what you need to know before your next flight:
- Real ID Requirement for Domestic Flights - Starting May 7, 2025, Real ID-compliant identification will be the new normal for boarding domestic flights in the U.S. Exemptions apply for certain groups, including active-duty military personnel, military retirees and their families using DOD IDs, veterans with VHICs, and children under 18 flying with adults.
- Ban on Lithium Battery Devices in Checked Baggage - Lithium-ion battery devices, such as portable chargers and power banks, will no longer be permitted in checked luggage.
- Carry-on Liquids to Be Kept in Quart-sized, Clear, Zip-top Bags - The long-standing restriction on carry-on liquids – containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and fitting in a single quart-sized clear plastic bag – will remain in effect. Exceptions include medications and child nourishment.
- Enhanced Procedural Reforms for Enforcement and Rulemakings by DOT - To ensure clarity in how regulations are implemented and enforced, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is proposing procedural reforms.
- Requirement for More Stringent Identification Verification and Clarity on Exemptions - The TSA will train officers to recognize and accept valid alternate credentials for certain traveler groups. Be prepared to speak up if TSA agents have questions about your ID, especially if it's an older military ID, to avoid boarding delays.
Happy travels!
In light of the anticipated 18.5 million travelers during the 4th of July holiday and the increased airport security measures, it's crucial for passengers to have their REAL ID or a REAL ID-compliant document for domestic flights, starting from May 7, 2025. Additionally, with five significant changes to TSA regulations in 2025, traveling will become more stringent, including the ban on lithium-ion battery devices in checked luggage.
