Record-Breaking July 4th Travel Expected: AAA Predicts 72 Million Hitting the Road

With the Fourth of July just two weeks away, AAA has released its travel forecast—and it’s a record-breaker. More than 72 million Americans are expected to travel 50 miles or more during the holiday period, which begins the weekend before Independence Day.

According to AAA, the majority—over 61.5 million—plan to travel by car. Travel experts say road congestion will be at its worst on Wednesday, July 2, and Sunday, July 6.

Airports will also be busy, with 5.8 million people expected to fly. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy, speaking from San Diego, said the FAA is facing a nationwide shortage of air traffic controllers and aging equipment, calling it an urgent issue.

“They should not be using this equipment,” Duffy said. “Americans expect much better, and I’m pulling every lever to keep controllers in the pipeline and fully certified.”

Newark Liberty International Airport is one location that has recently seen improvements. After staffing problems and construction disruptions, United Airlines reports the airport has jumped from 15th to 1st in on-time performance since reopening a key runway.

With schools letting out and families preparing to travel, experts say planning ahead and staying flexible will be key to navigating what could be the busiest summer travel season in 15 years.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.