ARLINGTON COUNTY, Va. (DC News Now) — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced that May alone topped five of the top 20 busiest travel days in the agency's history.
They expect similar records to be broken over Memorial Day weekend.
At Reagan National Airport, the TSA expects to screen about 8,000 more travelers per day this holiday weekend than an average weekend, a 10% increase from last year.
The TSA expects a similar surge at Dulles International Airport, with 39,000 passengers expected to travel on Thursday and Friday, and 34,000 on Sunday alone, a 12% increase from last year.
Reagan National and Dulles airports see surge in travelers over Memorial Day weekend
“I just wanted to get out of town,” passenger Zach Schneider said. “I honestly didn't think it would be this busy, so I probably would have gotten here sooner.”
The TSA is advising passengers to arrive at the airport early and be prepared to go through screening at the screening points.
Passengers are also encouraged to check the “What can I bring?” feature on the TSA website to ensure they aren't slowing down the checkpoint by bringing prohibited items.
For those using the roads, the Maryland Department of Transportation expects more than 330,000 vehicles to cross the Chesapeake Bay Bridge over Memorial Day weekend.
