Mobile Regional Airport seeing increased traffic during record-breaking travel season nationwide

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) – Many people plan on being home for the holidays. AAA says over 120 million people will be traveling over the next week. And among them, 8 million will do so through the air.

It’s a record-breaking season and we’re seeing busier days here at the Mobile Regional Airport.

“Even coming from Atlanta it’s packed. Everything is just moving and grooving today. I’m just happy that everybody is actually getting out. The economy has been crazy but as long as we can get out and share some bonds, I think we’d all be alright. There’s nothing better than coming home, being around your family, enjoying some southern hospitality, and being around your friends,” Marcia Smith said.

People who fly this year can also expect to spend more. AAA says domestic flight prices are up four percent and international flight prices are up 13 percent.

But it’s worth it to be home for the holidays.

“It’s all about family right now and taking that load and helping each other. The flights are expensive, but if you’ve got some family to help you out, you better go lean on them,” Smith said.

Locally, we’re counting down the holidays before most of this traffic moves to the new Mobile International Airport.

“It’s just going to get even easier for people at Mobile International Airport. It’s going to be just five minutes from downtown. Just 10 minutes from Baldwin County for some people. That’s our goal. Just to make air travel easier and more accessible for people in our region,” Director of Marketing & Communications Devin Calametti said.

And make sure that if you are flying this holiday season to get to the airport early. And if you’re traveling with gifts, make sure they’re not wrapped.

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