Holiday travel

More than 119 million people are expected to travel for Christmas and Hanukkah, according to AAA.

Locally, the Fort Dodge Regional Airport is seeing an uptick in passengers flying in and out of Fort Dodge.

“Unlike the concentrated Thanksgiving holiday travel period, with Christmas falling in the middle of the week, we are seeing higher passenger numbers out from Friday, Dec. 20 through the New Year weekend,” said Rhonda Chambers, director of aviation at the Fort Dodge Regional Airport. “Passengers are also choosing to fly on Christmas Day.”

Chambers said there are currently no reductions in airline flights in and out of Fort Dodge Regional Airport as there was over the Thanksgiving holiday.

“We truly appreciate every passenger who chooses to fly through Fort Dodge Regional Airport,” said Chambers.

Local and county law enforcement will be fully staffed and on the highways this holiday week.

“As with all holidays, the roads are going to be more congested with travelers,” said Fort Dodge Police Chief Dennis Quinn. “Please be patient and give yourself more time to get to your desired destination.”

While there aren’t formal speed traps set throughout the area, Fort Dodge police officers as well as Webster County deputies want travelers to put down their cell phones and pay attention when driving.

“We will be focusing on seatbelt usage, speeding, and driving under the influence,” said Luke Fleener, Webster County sheriff. “Please drive safely and hands free and enjoy this holiday season.”