HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Record crowds are expected this weekend as millions head out for Labor Day holiday travel. WakeUp2day's Chris Latronic went live from the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport to learn more with HDOT's Deputy Director of Transportation for Airports, Curt Otaguro.
The Transportation Security Administration anticipates screening more than 17 million people between Thursday and next Wednesday, a record for the Labor Day period. Domestic travel over the 2024 Labor Day weekend is forecast to be up 9% compared with last year, according to AAA.
On Friday, the agency expects to screen 2.86 million people. While an impressive number, it doesn't break the record for most screenings in TSA’s history. The single-day record of 3.01 million was set on July 7, the Sunday after Independence Day.
To best prepare for the travel weekend, travelers are advised to be proactive and leave early.
Everything will take longer than you expect, including getting through airport security. If you plan to park at the airport, make sure there will be spaces available when you arrive.
Travelers should also be on the lookout for the weather. KHON2 is tracking storms that could cause potential flight delays.
One last tip is to travel with Aloha. While flight cancellations and bumper-to-bumper traffic is frustrating, odds are you won't be the only one who is stuck.
Customer service agents are busy during peak travel periods, so it’s important to be patient and respectful while they try to help you.