This year, Thanksgiving travel is back in full swing. As demands continue to soar, Delta Air Lines anticipates carrying close to 500,000 travelers daily. From November 18th to the 29th, the airline expects nearly 6 million travelers to board the airline’s aircraft. 

Related: Delta Air Lines Teams Up With Starbucks To Launch Epic Loyalty Benefits Program

Peak travel days

The peak travel days for Delta are expected to be November 18th, the Friday before the holiday, and November 27th, the Sunday following Thanksgiving. 6.3 million travelers flew with Delta during the same time in 2019. 

Delta’s commitment

COVID-19
Delta Air Lines

Delta has been working to provide its travelers with a premium experience. In the past few months, the airline has added buffer time in crew scheduling, hiring and training more Delta crew members, and increasing boarding time. 

The airline completed over 99% of scheduled flights from September to now. 

“The holidays are all about connecting with loved ones, and after two years of disruption and unknowns, those connections are more important than ever,” says Delta CEO Ed Bastian. 

New to Delta travelers this Thanksgiving

This year, there will be new perks for Delta travelers to enjoy. At certain airports, you’ll be able to check your carry-on bags for free in the lobby if the flight is full. You’ll see a message pop up at the check-in kiosk instead of checking in at the gate. This will add to a faster boarding and departure experience. 

Delta Air Lines Starbucks
Courtesy of Delta Air Lines

With Delta’s partnership with Starbucks, you can earn SkyMiles when ordering coffee at the major coffee chain. All you have to do is link your Delta SkyMiles and Starbucks Rewards accounts. Link your accounts before December 31st to earn 500 bonus miles and 150 Stars on your first qualifying purchase. 

Stress-free travel tips

When flying with Delta, there are a few things you can do to make your experience this holiday more smooth. 

-Download the Fly Delta app to access your boarding pass, track the status of your flight and find your checked luggage.

-Arrive at least 2 hours before your domestic flight departs. Three hours before your international flight departs is ideal. This way, you’ll get through TSA without feeling flustered if there are lines. 

-Speed up your check-in process by using the self-tagging kiosks. 

Related: Delta Air Lines’ Brand New Terminal 3 At LAX Is Now Open