The Great Holiday Travel Surge: Soaring Skies and Bustling Roads!

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Friday is projected to be among the most hectic travel days of the winter holiday period at Fresno Yosemite International Airport, while roadways are also predicted to be congested.

“There is a large amount of traffic coming from the Bay Area heading south, and Northbound traffic from the Los Angeles area,” stated California Highway Patrol Officer Gregorio Rodriguez.

Sisters Rawan and Maryam are already experiencing the effects of the airport tumult.

“We were supposed to fly to Dubai, with our initial flight to Seattle scheduled for 10:20. However, it has been postponed to, I believe, around 12:30. So, now we are just in a holding pattern,” shared Rawan Sultan and Maryam Ebeid.

Their trio would soon become a duo after their mother was unable to secure an emergency passport appointment during their layover.

Authorities at Fresno Yosemite International Airport mention that Friday is merely the onset of the holiday rush.

“The peak day thus far during the winter travel season has been Saturday, December 21st, when over 5,800 travelers passed through Fresno,” clarified Vikkie Calderon from Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

“We anticipate additional busy days, such as today, along with Friday the 27th, and also Sunday, December 29th, and Monday, December 30th.”

Calderon states that the airport expects to see over 70,000 total travelers during this peak period.

Regardless of whether you’re traveling by car or air, officials urge everyone to exercise patience and prioritize safety, as winter storms could affect your travels.

“Currently, we are navigating between weather systems; fog is likely our main hindrance at this time, especially throughout the season. It’s essential to reduce your speed,” advised Officer Rodriguez.

“There have been weather-related impacts affecting flights at Fresno airport during the winter season, not just in Fresno, but at various airports nationwide, which does influence flights here in Fresno. Therefore, we encourage passengers to confirm with their airline prior to heading to the airport,” stated Calderon.

Calderon also mentioned that some of their parking facilities are either full or nearing capacity, hence it’s important to factor in time for both TSA processing and finding parking.

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