ORLANDO, Fla. – Thousands of travelers are expected to pass through Central Florida over the holiday weekend, and Orlando International Airport is already seeing some of the increased traffic.
Security lines were packed at OIA on Wednesday as residents attempt to make it to their holiday destinations. No significant flight delays were reported at OIA as of Wednesday afternoon.
According to Orbitz.com, Orlando is the No. 2 hotspot for Thanksgiving travel, behind New York City. Airport officials said 95 percent of all passengers traveling through OIA either begin or end their trip in Orlando, meaning a big boost in local economy. Families told Local 6 they are spending a minimum of $1,000 in Central Florida on theme parks, food, hotels and shopping.
Traveler Greg Meadows said his vacation spending here will affect his Christmas shopping.
"I heard Santa is on a diet, not coming around much this year," Meadows told Local 6.
Airport officials are recommending travelers arrive for their flights at least two hours ahead of time.
About 43.6 million people are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between Wednesday and Sunday for the holiday, an increase of 0.7 percent over last year.
As far as on ground traffic, about 39 million driver ares hitting the road this holiday. Travelers need to leave enough time for unexpected delays. A minor traffic accident can back up traffic for hours on some of the nation's highways.
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