UNITED STATES – With nearly 80 million people expected for Thanksgiving, according to AAA, this year's holiday season is shaping up to be a busy one. The travel rush is compounded by a brewing storm that threatens coast-to-coast disruptions and potential slowdowns due to a shortage of air traffic controllers.
Federal Aviation Administrator Michael Whitaker addressed the staffing issues, saying: “We're dealing with the traffic, the staffing issue as quickly as possible, we expected some disruption, that's why we're moving so many controllers in the pipeline.”
For those facing flight delays or cancellations, using credit card points can be a solution. Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy, advised: “Remove your points, book on another carrier. Even if you don't need to use that flight, you can cancel and get all your points back for free. He also suggested using points for future vacation travel because prices may increase, noting, “You'd be shocked how many rewards are available.”
If baggage issues arise, travelers are encouraged to report the bag to the airport, consider having the airline deliver it, and keep receipts for any expenses incurred while waiting. It is also recommended to check the airline's claims and compensation policy in the event of lost baggage.
As the holiday season approaches, travelers are reminded to be patient and bring things to keep them busy. A child at the Chicago airport shared, “I feel like you should bring a lot of books because if you're traveling for the first time and you're like, 'Oh, this is going to be great, I don't I don't need things to entertain me.' Chances are you need something to keep you entertained.”
