U.S. Aviation System Experiences Record Passenger Numbers

Why it matters locally: Increased passenger numbers in the national aviation system will impact Alabama residents traveling through airports like Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport and Mobile Regional Airport, potentially leading to longer lines and increased demand for services.

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U.S. airports and airlines are observing a record-setting summer travel period. Airlines are accommodating the largest volume of passengers in their history. This occurs while the total number of flights operated by these same airlines has decreased compared to levels seen two decades ago. This combination of increased passenger traffic and a reduced number of flights places increased demands on the U.S. aviation system.