Travelers prepare for holiday rush at Charleston International Airport

NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)—On Wednesday, thousands of travelers passed through Charleston International Airport, and according to Triple-A, nearly 80 million Americans are expected to travel during the holiday period, that’s almost 1.7 million more people than last year.  

“You could see the smile on my face. This is the time of year that I love and that we love here at the airport because it’s an opportunity for us to get families together. We get the folks to come in to see their loved ones, and we get the ones coming into town to see them,” said Spencer Pryor, the Deputy Executive Director and Chief Communications Officer at Charleston International Airport.

Officials at Charleston International told News 2 they prioritize ensuring everyone gets to their destinations in time to enjoy the holidays with their families. Some travelers have told us that the holiday holds a special meaning this year. 

“This is the first year we won’t have my mother around. She died this past June, so it’s great that we all can finally come together to celebrate her. Her sister will also be there to do it, and it will be a lovely Thanksgiving,” said Andrew McKnight, a traveler. 

Despite the holiday travel rush, everyone we spoke to had the same message: take a moment to slow down and enjoy the time with those you love.

You must appreciate each other and enjoy one another. Family doesn’t get along all the time, but it’s still family, and you know you should never know what tomorrow will bring, so you must appreciate today,” said Yolonda Wilson, a traveler from Ohio.

Officials ask that travelers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their flight and double-check the carry-on policies before heading out.