Despite the ongoing pandemic, pre-holiday travel numbers are breaking records, exceeding even those from the Thanksgiving weekend. Social media feeds are filled with posts from friends and family who dismiss COVID-19, while stores are bustling and families are allowing their children to sit on unmasked Santa’s lap. As COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations, and fatalities reach alarming levels, many people remain undeterred, opting to travel by air, which is likely to contribute to another surge in infections.
According to The Washington Post, this past weekend saw daily air travel surpass 1 million passengers for three consecutive days, marking the highest number of weekend travelers since the pandemic began. Over that Friday through Sunday period, a total of 3.2 million passengers were screened. This surge in travel comes despite warnings from health officials, including the CDC, who are simply trying to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 as healthcare systems become overwhelmed. Hospitals are nearing capacity, and those needing care for other health issues may face delays or even be turned away. But some individuals seem intent on visiting relatives, regardless of the risks involved.
In addition to this weekend’s record, the weekends surrounding Thanksgiving also saw high travel numbers, with totals of 3,052,139 travelers before the holiday and 2,961,120 afterward. This travel surge likely contributed to significant spikes in COVID-19 cases across various states in the weeks following.
While airports are implementing safety measures—such as TSA officers disinfecting bins—these precautions can only do so much. Crowded airports raise concerns that even with masks, sanitizers, and other measures, the risk of illness remains high.
In response to the pandemic, the TSA has adjusted rules regarding hand sanitizer, allowing passengers to carry one container of up to 12 ounces in their carry-on bags, which will be screened separately. Though seeing over 3 million travelers during a global health crisis is alarming, it is worth noting that this figure is still significantly lower than the same period last year.
The CDC continues to emphasize that travel increases the risk of spreading and contracting COVID-19, urging people to postpone travel whenever possible. For those who cannot avoid it, they recommend getting a flu shot, wearing masks, and frequently washing hands, but ultimately, staying home is the safest option.
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Summary:
Pre-Christmas travel has reached record highs amidst the ongoing pandemic, with over 3 million passengers flying in just three days. Despite warnings from health officials and the risks involved, many people are determined to travel, potentially contributing to further spikes in COVID-19 cases. Safety measures are being implemented at airports, but the best way to avoid the virus remains staying at home.