The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is preparing for what is projected to be the busiest Labor Day travel period on record, with over 17 million travelers expected to pass through U.S. airports between Thursday, Aug. 29 and Wednesday, Sept. 4. This surge in air travel marks an 8.5% increase from last year, capping off a summer of unprecedented travel volumes.
The peak travel day is anticipated to be Friday, Aug. 30, when TSA expects to screen approximately 2.86 million people. This comes after a summer in which the TSA has already screened 239.8 million passengers—an average of 2.7 million per day—setting new records for the agency. Notably, on July 7, TSA officers screened more than 3 million people in a single day, the highest in the agency's history.
TSA Administrator David Pekoske praised the efforts of TSA personnel and their partners: “People are traveling more than ever this summer, and TSA, along with our airline and airport partners, stands ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend. I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secure—especially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.”
Traveler Tips for a Smooth Journey
With record numbers of travelers expected, the TSA is offering several tips to help passengers navigate busy airports with ease:
- Enroll in TSA PreCheck: Passengers can save time by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler Program. TSA PreCheck members enjoy expedited screening and do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items, or light jackets at the checkpoint. Remember to ensure that your Known Traveler Number (KTN) is included in your airline reservation so it appears on your boarding pass.
- Plan Ahead for Wait Times: TSA aims to keep wait times under 10 minutes in TSA PreCheck lanes and under 30 minutes in standard screening lanes. However, with increased volumes, travelers are advised to arrive early, especially during peak travel times.
- Prepare for REAL ID: Starting May 7, 2025, travelers will need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to fly domestically. If your driver’s license is not REAL ID-compliant, you will need another form of acceptable identification, such as a U.S. passport. Check for the small star in the upper right corner of your ID to confirm compliance.
Implications for Travelers
As more travelers take to the skies, staying informed and prepared is key to ensuring a smooth airport experience. The continued rollout of new checkpoint technology is expected to enhance security and efficiency, but travelers should remain proactive by arriving early, packing smart, and taking advantage of programs like TSA PreCheck.
For those traveling over Labor Day, these tips are especially crucial. The TSA’s commitment to maintaining security and efficiency during this record-breaking period is clear, but cooperation and preparedness on the part of passengers will make all the difference in navigating the busy airports with ease.
For more information on TSA PreCheck, REAL ID requirements, or other travel tips, visit the TSA website.
