Florida airports expected to set records over the holidays

MIAMI – Holiday travel in 2022 is expected to rival the busiest seasons before the pandemic at Miami International Airport and Fort Lauderdale, which will see millions of travelers pass through over the next two weeks.

2.5 million passengers are expected to go through MIA, which surpasses the airport’s previous record set last year, officials said.

Authorities are asking travelers to arrive at the airport early, as 1.6 million people are expected to use the Fort Lauderdale airport, an increase of 13 percent from 2021.

Travel experts across the country expect 102 million Americans to travel by air and by land.

And with a winter storm forecast to make its way through parts of the country, some airlines are already reporting cancellations and delays before it hits.

If you’re trying to beat the storm, you can ask your airline for a free travel waiver, allowing you to change your current flight.

“You want to make sure you check with the airline you’re flying with to see what their specific policy covers,” said Melanie Fish, an Expedia employee.

If your flight is cancelled, you are entitled to a refund if you choose not to take a rescheduled flight.

The experts also ask travelers to review the rebooking policy because not all airlines offer the option.

“Automation is your friend,” Fish said. “Use the apps or website you booked your trip on and go ahead and see what your rebooking options are. You can call, but those waiting times are going to be long”

If your cancellation has nothing to do with the weather, your travel bill of rights entitles you to a free hotel and meals.

“Generally speaking, airlines must provide refunds if they cancel the flight and don’t offer reasonable alternatives,” Fish said. “Airlines want to help you get where you need to go. So they’re going to work with you, especially this week.”

Experts advise clients to arrive 2 hours early for a domestic flight and 3 hours early for an international flight; however, as Christmas approaches, many recommend planning ahead and getting there as soon as possible.