WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that nearly six million people will fly domestically this Thanksgiving.
The holiday travel rush is also hitting close to home as Wilmington International Airport (ILM) is prepping for an influx of passengers.
ILM Director Jeff Bourk says that Thanksgiving travel is up by 22% when compared to last year.
“We are prepared, we have some extra staff over the weekend. We will have everybody ready to handle the demand. It’s going to be one of the busiest travel seasons on record. Also for ILM, it will be a peak record of travel,” said Bourk.
Bourk says the increase comes down to more options being available for customers.
“It’s just easier than ever to get to where you want to go out of Wilmington.”
The airport has added more non-stop flight options in recent years. The number of passengers in and out of ILM has also increased significantly over the last two years.
“We’re seeing record growth and huge increases. I think we will be up about 40% from the last few years and we are preparing for that growth with the infrastructure investments you are seeing take place here at ILM,” said Bourk.
It’s recommended that passengers get to the airport at least an hour and a half before take off. People flying out of ILM should also check the airport’s website to stay up to date on parking availability.
Bourk also noted that people should check the TSA website to ensure they have the correct items for a flight.
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