SAN DIEGO — This year's Thanksgiving travel is expected to be record breaking and even exceeding pre-pandemic numbers.
San Diego Airport officials are preparing for a significant surge in holiday travelers. Travel is forecasted to be up 6% compared to Thanksgiving week last year. The airport expects to see 460,000 travelers.
Nationwide 2.8 million people are expected to fly Tuesday. Next Sunday could set an all time record with more than 3 million passing through airport security nationwide.
"This is probably the one time of year I'll check a bag," said Jack, a traveler at the airport Sunday.
He was packed up and ready to go with suitcases full of gifts.
“Niece and nephews some Christmas gifts for Thanksgiving. We celebrate Christmas over Thanksgiving. Easy travel. Couple hours. Shoes and more shoes," he said.
Major construction is still happening at Terminal 1. The airport recommends you arrive early especially during peak hours from 4 a.m. to 6:15 a.m., 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. to midnight.
Don't forget the new automatic airline refunds rules are in effect. This means you're entitled to a refund if your flight is cancelled, or delayed by three or more hours for domestic flights or six or more hours if you're flying internationally.
If you're traveling by car, AAA warns Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon will be the busiest days on the road.