San Antonio International Airport Braces for Thanksgiving Surge

Busy airport terminal with travelers during Thanksgiving

San Antonio, Texas, November 25, 2025

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) anticipates a record-breaking surge in travelers this Thanksgiving, expecting to accommodate 300,000 to 400,000 passengers in the next 10 days. This reflects a 10-15% increase compared to normal traffic. Peak days are projected for Tuesday and Wednesday. Airport Director Jesus Saenz assures that SAT is ready to handle the influx, recommending early arrivals and utilization of check-in options. With past record numbers, SAT aims to ensure a smooth travel experience during this busy season.

San Antonio International Airport Prepares for Record-Breaking Thanksgiving Travel

San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is bracing for a significant surge in travelers this Thanksgiving holiday season, with expectations of accommodating between 300,000 to 400,000 passengers over the next 10 days. This marks a 10-15% increase compared to typical traffic volumes.

Anticipated Travel Volume

Airport Director Jesus Saenz highlighted the upcoming peak travel days, noting that Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to see the highest volumes. He emphasized the importance of early arrival to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Operational Readiness

Following the recent government shutdown, SAT has resumed normal operations. Saenz reassured travelers that the airport is fully prepared to handle the increased passenger flow during the holiday period.

Traveler Recommendations

To facilitate a seamless journey, travelers are advised to arrive at the airport early, especially during peak days. Utilizing early check-in options via airline apps or airport kiosks can expedite the process. Monitoring weather conditions is also crucial, as adverse weather can impact travel plans.

Background Context

The Thanksgiving holiday consistently represents one of the busiest travel periods in the United States. In 2025, AAA projects that 81.8 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home between November 25 and December 1, setting a new overall record.

In San Antonio, the airport has experienced record-breaking passenger numbers in previous years. For instance, in 2022, approximately 347,110 travelers passed through SAT during the Thanksgiving period, marking a nearly 4% increase over 2019.

With the anticipated increase in travelers, SAT is implementing measures to ensure efficient operations and passenger comfort throughout the holiday season.

Key Takeaways

This Thanksgiving, San Antonio’s growth in traveler numbers reflects resilience and a commitment to enhancing the travel experience. Local airports like SAT are playing a vital role in accommodating this increase, ensuring that both residents and visitors can enjoy a smooth journey to their holiday destinations.

FAQs

What is the expected number of travelers at San Antonio International Airport during the Thanksgiving holiday?
The airport anticipates accommodating between 300,000 to 400,000 passengers over the next 10 days, marking a 10-15% increase compared to typical traffic volumes.
Which days are expected to be the busiest for travel at the airport?
Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to see the highest volumes of travelers.
What recommendations are given to travelers to ensure a smooth journey?
Travelers are advised to arrive at the airport early, utilize early check-in options via airline apps or airport kiosks, and monitor weather conditions, as adverse weather can impact travel plans.
How does the projected Thanksgiving travel volume in 2025 compare to previous years?
In 2025, AAA projects that 81.8 million people will travel at least 50 miles from home between November 25 and December 1, setting a new overall record.
Has San Antonio International Airport experienced record-breaking passenger numbers in the past?
Yes, in 2022, approximately 347,110 travelers passed through SAT during the Thanksgiving period, marking a nearly 4% increase over 2019.

Key Feature Details
Expected Traveler Volume 300,000 to 400,000 passengers over the next 10 days, a 10-15% increase compared to typical traffic volumes.
Peak Travel Days Tuesday and Wednesday are expected to see the highest volumes of travelers.
Traveler Recommendations Arrive early, utilize early check-in options via airline apps or airport kiosks, and monitor weather conditions.
Projected Thanksgiving Travel Volume in 2025 81.8 million people expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between November 25 and December 1, setting a new overall record.
Previous Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers In 2022, approximately 347,110 travelers passed through SAT during the Thanksgiving period, marking a nearly 4% increase over 2019.

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The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar 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 Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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