ROMULUS, Mich. – Despite a record-breaking 122.4 million Americans traveling this Christmas, Detroit Metro’s McNamara Terminal is running smoothly.
Flights are on time, TSA lines are moving efficiently, and the real stories are unfolding at baggage claim.
A Brazilian Holiday Reunion
For Becca Porter and her mother, the wait at baggage claim was filled with anticipation.
The Ann Arbor residents, originally from Brazil, were there to welcome their best friends flying in for Christmas.
“They were the family that we built here when we moved here,” Porter said. “It can get very lonely, so during the holidays to have them fly in to see us, it’s so special.”
Three Generations Together
The holiday spirit continued as a couple from Allen Park welcomed their son and daughter-in-law from Miami, along with precious cargo – their two-month-old granddaughter.
The well-prepared grandparents even brought their own stroller for the occasion.
“We love having them home,” Mary Ellen Darin said.
Record-Breaking Travel Numbers
This year’s holiday travel is setting new records.
AAA reports:
- 109.5 million Americans are choosing to drive, up 2% from last year
- A record-breaking 8.03 million are flying to their destinations
- Another 4.9 million are traveling by bus, train, or cruise ship.
Essential Tips for Holiday Travelers
For those still planning their holiday trips, travel experts recommend:
- Arriving two hours early for domestic flights
- Checking flight status before leaving home
- Preparing for increased traffic on December 26
- Keeping important items in carry-on luggage