This Memorial Day weekend saw a significant increase in travel compared to last year, with more than 2.9 million travelers passing through airports on Friday alone, setting a record for the Transportation Security Administration. This surge in travel is a clear sign that people are eager to get back to their pre-pandemic activities, with five of TSA’s busiest days ever occurring this month. Last year, passenger volumes were slightly higher than in 2019 for the stretch from the Thursday before Memorial Day to the Wednesday after, indicating a strong recovery in the travel industry.
Airlines were prepared for an even busier weekend this year, with more than 269,000 flights scheduled from Thursday through Tuesday, up from over 264,000 during the same period in 2020. AAA also predicted a significant increase in air travel, with over 3.5 million people expected to fly over Memorial Day weekend in 2021, representing a 9% increase from 2019. Overall, AAA projected nearly 44 million travelers across all methods of transportation, potentially the highest number since 2005. The majority of American travelers, around 90%, are expected to choose road travel over other options.
For the more than 38 million travelers projected to drive, gas prices were estimated to average around $3.65 per gallon nationally as of May 23. Prices varied significantly by region, with the highest levels on the West Coast, particularly in California where a gallon of regular gasoline averaged around $5.16. In contrast, motorists in the South, particularly in Mississippi, could find the cheapest prices at just over $3 per gallon. Despite varying gas prices, the appeal of road travel remains high for the vast majority of travelers.
As the travel industry ramps up for the summer season, there is a renewed sense of optimism among travelers eager to make up for lost time due to the pandemic. With people feeling more comfortable and confident in traveling, airlines, airports, and other transportation modes are experiencing a surge in demand. This increased activity is a positive sign for the overall economy, as the travel industry plays a significant role in driving consumer spending and economic growth.
The Memorial Day weekend served as a strong indicator of the resurgence of the travel industry, with record-breaking passenger volumes at airports and a significant increase in flights scheduled. As people continue to prioritize travel and leisure activities, the summer season is expected to see even higher travel volumes, reflecting a continued recovery from the impact of the pandemic. This increase in travel also bodes well for related industries, such as hospitality, entertainment, and retail, as people venture out and spend on experiences and products.
Overall, the strong showing of travel over Memorial Day weekend signals a return to normalcy and a sense of optimism among Americans eager to explore and reconnect with loved ones. With an increase in both air and road travel, the travel industry is poised for a robust recovery in the coming months, potentially reaching pre-pandemic levels or even exceeding them. As travelers adapt to new safety protocols and navigate fluctuating gas prices, the resilience and adaptability of the industry are evident, pointing towards a brighter future for travel and tourism.
