Atlanta, December 24, 2025
News Summary
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport is preparing for a significant increase in holiday travelers, with an expected 5.3 million passengers between December 19 and January 4. This surge marks the highest traffic since the pandemic began, surpassing last year’s 4 million. The busiest day is forecasted to be December 26, with over 348,000 expected. Travelers are advised to arrive early and stay informed about potential weather-related delays impacting flight schedules.
Atlanta is gearing up for a significant surge in holiday travel, with Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) projecting approximately 5.3 million travelers from December 19 to January 4. This increase marks the highest holiday traffic volume since the beginning of the pandemic, surpassing last year’s 4 million travelers, and closely approaching the 5.2 million reported in 2022.
Passenger traffic picked up noticeably early Wednesday morning, resulting in steadily moving lines as residents and visitors alike head home or away for the holiday season. Airport officials have identified Friday, December 26, as the busiest day during this period, expecting over 348,000 passengers to pass through the airport.
As the number of travelers increases, security wait times can be a concern. Around 4:30 a.m. today, security wait times at the North Checkpoint peaked at approximately 21 minutes, but these times eased shortly thereafter. Given the expected surge in passenger traffic, Hartsfield-Jackson officials recommend that travelers arrive at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
Weather conditions in the Northeast and western U.S. are being closely monitored, as adverse weather may impact flight schedules at ATL. So far, airport officials have reported dozens of flight delays and several cancellations. Passengers are advised to check their flight status ahead of time.
Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead. Hartsfield-Jackson officials have indicated that parking lots may frequently reach capacity, and ongoing construction may result in traffic congestion. Those traveling to the airport are urged to consider using public transport options, which include MARTA (Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority), taxis, and rideshare services such as Uber, Lyft, and HERide.
For convenience, a designated rideshare pick-up area is a five-minute walk from the domestic terminal, with customer service staff and directional signage available to assist passengers. It is also advisable for travelers to ensure compliance with TSA regulations regarding what they can bring in carry-on and checked baggage.
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport emphasizes the importance of remaining vigilant for any suspicious behavior. Travelers are encouraged to report any concerns to authorities. The airport also has green-coated guest service representatives available to assist travelers with questions or issues that may arise during busy travel days.
Overall, the airport anticipates a record holiday season, a welcome sign of recovery in air travel following the pandemic. By preparing in advance and staying informed, travelers can navigate the hustle and bustle of Hartsfield-Jackson more efficiently.
FAQs
- How many travelers are expected at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport this holiday season?
- Approximately 5.3 million travelers will use Hartsfield-Jackson between December 19 and January 4.
- What was the number of travelers reported last year during the same period?
- Last year, 4 million travelers were reported during the same period.
- When is the busiest day expected at the airport?
- Friday, December 26 is forecasted to be the busiest day, with over 348,000 passengers expected.
- What should travelers do to ensure a smooth experience?
- Travelers are encouraged to arrive at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights.
- What transportation options are available for reaching Hartsfield-Jackson?
- Passengers are advised to consider public transport options, including MARTA, taxis, and rideshare services like Uber, Lyft, and HERide.
- What should travelers monitor regarding flight schedules?
- Travelers should monitor weather conditions in the Northeast and western U.S. that may impact flight schedules, as well as check their flight status regularly.
Key Features of the Holiday Travel Surge
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Travelers | 5.3 million from December 19 to January 4 |
| Last Year’s Count | 4 million travelers |
| Busiest Day | Friday, December 26 with over 348,000 passengers |
| Security Wait Times | Peaked at 21 minutes around 4:30 a.m. |
| Pew Research on Arrivals | Arrive two hours before domestic flights, three hours before international flights |
| Parking Information | Parking lots may reach capacity, check availability |
| Public Transport Options | MARTA, taxis, Uber, Lyft, HERide |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Wikipedia: Hartsfield–Jackson Atlanta International Airport
- USA Today
- Google Search: holiday travel surge atlanta
- CBS News Atlanta
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Air Transportation
- Atlanta News First
- Google News: Hartsfield-Jackson travel
- Rough Draft Atlanta
- Google Scholar: airport travel surge
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
