Labor Day weekend in 2025 is expected to see an increase in travel demand compared to last year. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is anticipating conducting security screenings for 17.4 million passengers from August 28 to September 3, surpassing last year’s 17.1 million. United Airlines expects to transport around 3.9 million passengers during this weekend, with a record-high number of 36,500 flights scheduled.
With such a massive influx of people, traffic congestion is inevitable. According to data from transportation platform INRIX and various media sources, New Yorkers can significantly reduce the risk of being stuck in traffic by avoiding travel during the following peak times:
August 29 (Friday): It is recommended to depart before noon, as congestion is most severe between noon and 8 pm.
August 30 (Saturday): The best time to travel is between 6 am and 10 am; traffic is expected to worsen rapidly afterwards.
August 31 (Sunday): Departing before 11 am is advised.
September 1 (Labor Day, Monday): It is recommended to drive before noon, with the period from 1 pm to 4 pm expected to be the peak return time.
Traffic experts emphasize that road traffic has not only recovered but exceeded pre-pandemic levels. The favorable weather conditions during the holiday period are expected to further drive the surge in travel, advising drivers to allocate extra time and leave early whenever possible.
A report by the American Automobile Association (AAA) shows that compared to last year, domestic round-trip airfare prices are on average 6% cheaper, hotel prices have decreased by 11%, and car rental costs have also dropped by approximately 3%. With travel expenses lower than last year, this may be one of the factors driving more people to travel this year.
The Transportation Security Administration reminds travelers that a series of new security policies have been introduced this year, including: not having to remove shoes in standard lanes, additional lanes designated for families and military personnel, free expedited screening for military families (PreCheck), and discounted expedited screening for military spouses.