Record-breaking Thanksgiving travel brings crowds to Richmond International Airport

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) – Richmond International Airport is gearing up for crowds as travelers head out for Thanksgiving — one of the busiest travel days of the year.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) projects to screen approximately 3 million passengers nationwide today, contributing to an expected total of 18.3 million travelers during the holiday week.

This represents a 6% increase compared to last year, with Wednesday Nov. 27 and Dec. 2 — the Sunday after Thanksgiving — predicted to be the busiest travel days.

Closer to home, AAA reports over 2 million Virginians are traveling for Thanksgiving this year, with an anticipated 132,000 traveling by flight.

Richmond International Airport is experiencing smooth operations so far, with no flight cancellations reported earlier this week.

For those traveling with food, TSA reminds passengers to pack starting with an empty bag to avoid accidentally taking prohibited items through security.

Liquids, gels and aerosols over 3.4 ounces — including some Thanksgiving staples like gravy, cranberry sauce and wine — must be packed in checked luggage. Solid foods, such as baked goods, can be carried through security.