Tears flowed as 18-year-old Thomas Stutts walked through the arrival gate.
“We are just so happy to have him home,” his mother, Laura Stutts said. “We haven’t seen him since June.”
Coming home for the holidays from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Thomas was warned about possible threats when traveling in uniform. That’s a thought that made his mother nervous.
“So blessed that he made it safely,” she said.
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So far there are no significant delays at Orlando International Airport, thanks to relatively good weather around the country.
But officials say travelers need to pack their patience as they go through the TSA checkpoints because of heightened security and the high volume of travelers.
For other travelers like Catherine Mora, who is traveling to Paris, France, she said she didn’t know if her trip would still happen following the terrorist attacks.
“At first I was a little bit nervous,” More said. “A little skeptical about continuing my travels, but I’m excited now. I feel very safe.”
And for those families making a road trip out of state, law enforcement has stepped up patrols to crack down on reckless driving.
Marla Parker and her family said other drivers need to be aware of the precious cargo sharing the roads.
“The traffic has been very heavy,” Parker said. “If you’re out there traveling, please be careful and don’t drive crazy. Just take your time. Go with the flow.”
More people are traveling this year due to a better economy and lower gas prices.
Experts said taking your time and practicing caution can help ensure a safe and happy Thanksgiving.
The next big travel day will be this coming Saturday as people head home, so expect heavy traffic and long lines.
Airport officials said to arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights.
An estimated 1.3 million travelers are expected to go through the Orlando International Airport during this Thanksgiving holiday period, making it the seventh busiest airport in the nation.