Travel Boom Hits XNA Over Labor Day Weekend
Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) is experiencing a surge in traveler activity over the Labor Day weekend, mirroring national trends that indicate an increase in travel this year. Olivia Tyler, public affairs manager for XNA, forecasts a busy holiday weekend, driven by the airport’s steady growth and addition of new non-stop destinations.
The airport has consistently broken enplanement numbers, with over 100,000 passengers in each of the past two months. This upward trend is expected to continue, with XNA offering 23 non-stop destinations and three more additions on the horizon: Philadelphia, Detroit, and Salt Lake City.
As the busiest travel days kick off, travelers are advised to arrive at least two hours before their scheduled departure to navigate security checks efficiently. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) expects to screen over 30,000 passengers during the holiday period, with Friday, August 30, anticipated to be the busiest day.
Nationally, the TSA forecasts screening over 17 million travelers during the Labor Day holiday, reflecting a year-over-year increase of 9%, partly driven by lower travel costs. Gas prices, in particular, have continued their downward trend, making road travel more appealing. According to AAA, travel costs have decreased by 2% compared to last year, contributing to the growth in travel.
