ATA Says Memorial Day Traffic Heavy

The Air Transport Association (ATA) said it expects more than 21 million passengers to travel globally on U.S. airlines over the 2006 Memorial Day holiday between May 22 and May 31. The industry is seeing continued growth in the number of people planning to fly this year, and the Memorial Day holiday will be no exception, according to ATA President and CEO James C. May. Systemwide, passenger volumes during this period are projected to rise 1.9 percent from a year ago, principally due to 9 percent growth in international air travel. ATA says travelers shouldn't forget their photo ID; to allow plenty of time to get to the airport, park and go through security; to leave lighters at home; make sure all bags include contact information; use a TSA-approved luggage lock; limit carry on bags to one standard-sized bag and one personal item like a briefcase or purse, and use automated check-in options, such as airline web sites and airport kiosks, up to 24 hours prior to departure.