Travelers react to busy holiday weekend

BUFFALO, N.Y. -- It’s been a busy start to the holiday weekend, hundreds of flights cancelled and delayed across the U.S. due to bad weather and staffing shortages.

Travelers going to and from Western New York say it didn’t stop them from sticking to their plans.

AAA Travel says Independence Day will be the second busiest since 2000 as travel volumes continue to trend upwards. It’s an expensive time due to inflation. AAA says the average lowest airfair is 14% more than 2021 at $201/ticket.

But the record prices aren’t stopping people from traveling.

At Buffalo Niagara International Airport, travelers tell FOX Buffalo planes have been packed with passengers.

“It’s been busy across the board. We came from California. We’re originally from here [Buffalo]. And each stop has been very busy. It’s been long lines for baggage and food and so forthand it’s the 4th of July weekend so it’s to be expected,” says Syreeta Smith.

Many airlines have been combating pandemic staff shortages. Travelers say they could see the impacts.

“Some stuff was closed in the airports because of short staff too. Like food areas and certain areas in the airport you just couldn’t access because they didn’t have any staff,” said Lasheadean Smith.

And delayed departures are still holding up some passengers. One grandmother says her and her granddaughter’s Southwest flight time has been changing back and forth all day.

“I’ve been notifying her mom in Florida and my husband to let them know because they’re picking us up from the airport and it’s changed literally 10 timesI have it all on our phone. They’re at the point now where they’re sending all these funny emojis every time I send them an update because it’s so ridiculous. So, we’re just kind of rolling with it. They just changed it again as we were standing in line,” said Babette Cicero.

But despite the long waits, some travelers say they were happy to be with family and ready to have some fun for the 4th of July.

“We just go here for Niagara—we went to see Niagara Falls and some of the state parks,” said Hayden Mclean, who visited from Dallas.

“Oh, I got to hurry up and set up my yearly party. We throw the party in Las Vegas and I’ve got two days to set up!” said Dallas Mann, who visited from Las Vegas.

“Just being with familygoing to the water park if it’s open, if it’s hot enough haha! Barbecues and just enjoying the family!” said Smith.

AAA also wants to remind travelers to be patient and keep safety in mind as you go to and from your destinations.