ORLANDO, Fla. – As the Thanksgiving season unfolds, millions are on the move, with Orlando emerging as the prime destination, according to AAA. To dodge the anticipated post-holiday travel chaos, many opted to return home on Thanksgiving Day itself.
AAA projects that close to 82 million Americans will travel during this festive period. With recent disruptions in air travel, a significant number are choosing the road over the skies.
Officials have identified the Sunday following Thanksgiving as one of the busiest travel days for both roadways and airports across the country.
Take Joey Coker, for instance, who decided to drive back to Florida on the holiday itself. His goal was to sidestep the potential traffic turmoil expected over the weekend.
“I just want to enjoy my turkey and head back,” he remarked, noting, “Tomorrow (Friday) is going to be a madhouse.”
His sentiments were echoed by many other travelers, who also sought to avoid the congestion.
Ted Berbower said, “It would have been terrible. We would not have made it back in time.”
Some drivers told News 6 they’re already expecting long waits on the road. One said the best approach is to stay positive.
“Make the best out of it. It’s just family time—listen to music, crack jokes,” said Jenson Marc.
Meanwhile, travelers flying back on Thanksgiving Day were also hoping to avoid airport congestion.
Orlando International Airport projects Sunday to be its busiest day, with more than 177,000 travelers, and recommends passengers arrive at least three hours before departure.
Sarah Goretski, traveling from Michigan, said she wanted to avoid the nightmare at the airport and live by the plan ahead to leave on the holiday.
“We’ve been allowing a little extra time to get to the airport, trying to make it as stress-free as possible.”
AAA notes the heaviest traffic window on Sunday will be after 11 a.m.
Florida Highway Patrol troopers say they’re preparing for the surge.
FHP Trooper Garcia said, “We’re going to have a lot more inbound and outbound traffic through our state on the roads, but if we are all patient and prepared, we can be safe.”
Other drivers offered simple advice for avoiding the gridlock.
Marc put it plainly: “If you don’t want to sit in it, leave early.”
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