The Air Transport Association forecasts that slightly fewer passengers will travel June 1 through August 31 compared to the same period last year. Approximately 211.5 million passengers are expected to fly this summer, down approximately one percent from the 214.2 million passengers who traveled during the summer months of 2007. However, it is asking FAA to re-open use of military airspace along the East Coast as it did last Thanksgiving and Christmas when it announced the Holiday Express Lanes.
"For a variety of reasons, slightly fewer people will fly this summer and planes will be approaching 85 percent full," said ATA President and CEO James C. May. "While New York remains a chokepoint, airlines, airports and government are doing all they can to avoid lengthy delays when possible and to provide a pleasant travel experience for all."
"We know that summer travel can be stressful for passengers and airports are well organized to handle unexpected schedule changes or delays," said Greg Principato, Airports Council International-NA president. "We will work closely with the airlines and the Transportation Security Administration to ensure safe and smooth operations for travelers. In the case of delays, airports will help to provide a full range of business and leisure services to meet passenger needs."
Record-high jet fuel prices, a weakening economy and airline capacity cuts are the main reasons for the reduction in the number of passengers; still airplanes will be flying with relatively full loads. And, with the cost of jet fuel approaching $170 per barrel, airlines will be taking every conceivable step to minimize delays and improve operational efficiencies.