As more Americans plan to travel this year, Dulles International and Reagan National gear up for what could be a very busy summer travel season.
A Deloitte survey released this week finds roughly six in 10 people will travel this summer, with 48 percent taking a trip where they will pay for lodging.
Those with higher incomes and baby boomers are the most likely to travel. Compared to last year, high earners will represent 44 percent of the traveling public, compared to 35 percent in 2023.
Twenty-four percent will be baby boomers, compared to last year’s 28 percent. One in five boomers surveyed said they would take a marquee trip after Labor Day.
There will be an increase in the percentage of people taking domestic flights, as well as increased demand for direct international flights and upgraded fares, Deloitte’s survey of 4,022 Americans between March 20 and April 2 found.
Passenger projections at NoVA’s two airports exceed last year’s volume, the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority said. Passenger estimates from May through August anticipate a 5 percent increase at Dulles and a 1 to 3 percent increase at Reagan National. Last year, during those months, 9.5 million passengers used Dulles and 9 million used DCA.
“The Airports Authority is teaming up with its government partners to deliver technology-based security and passport-processing improvements for customers at Washington’s airports, especially for international arrivals who must clear U.S. Customs upon arrival at Dulles,” said Airports Authority President and CEO Jack Potter, in a statement.
“With more than 40 airlines serving 190 destinations worldwide from Dulles, and travel demand continuing to increase around the world, we expect a record number of passengers at our airports this summer,” Potter continued.
The airports authority recommends international passengers download the Mobile Passport Control app to minimize waits at Customs. The free app lets you submit travel documents, photos, and Customs declaration information. You can then enter a dedicated passport-control queue at Dulles.
Other tips:
- Reserve parking in advance.
- Take Metro.
- Use Kiss and Fly at Dulles and the express passenger drop off at Reagan National.
- Arrive at least two hours before domestic flights or three hours before international flights.
- Sign up for TSA Pre-check, the Mobile Passport Control app, or Global Entry.
- Know what can go in your carry-on luggage.
Domestic travelers heading to Connecticut will have a new low-cost option out of Dulles this summer. On Monday and Friday evenings, Avelo Airlines will offer nonstop service between Tweed–New Haven Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport beginning on July 12.
Avelo, the 43rd airline flying out of Dulles, has started to offer one-way fares for $46.
Feature image of Avelo plane courtesy Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority
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