Airports in South Florida are gearing up for an unprecedented holiday season, with millions of travelers expected to pass through their terminals from late December to early January.
According to Telemundo 51, Miami International Airport (MIA) anticipates welcoming 3.3 million passengers between December 19, 2025, and January 5, 2026, marking a 3% increase compared to the same period last year.
The busiest travel days are projected to be December 26 and 27, as well as January 2 and 3, with daily numbers exceeding 190,000 passengers.
To accommodate the influx, MIA unveiled the new Ibis Garage on December 19, adding 2,240 spaces to the existing Dolphin and Flamingo garages, bringing the total to a record 10,500 parking spots.
Authorities advise travelers to arrive at least three hours early to check-in, clear security, and park without hassle. They also recommend completing online check-in and using the airport's mobile app or website for up-to-date flight information.
Additionally, passengers can opt for alternatives like the Economy Park and Ride with lower rates, and valet parking services at doors 2 and 20 of the Dolphin and Flamingo garages. Those picking up passengers can use the Cell Phone Waiting Lot, offering 60 free spaces near LeJeune Road and NW 31st Street.
The TSA reminds travelers that since July, they can keep their shoes on during security checks, but suggests keeping medications, documents, chargers, and a change of clothes in carry-ons due to potential delays in accessing checked luggage.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) expects 2.1 million travelers over the same period, with peaks of over 124,000 people per day.
Critical dates include the weekends before Christmas and New Year, as well as the first weekend of January.
Authorities recommend arriving two hours early for domestic flights and three for international ones, checking REAL ID requirements, and using the airport's free app for flight and parking status updates.
The terminal offers over 11,000 parking spaces but warns they may fill quickly, suggesting shared transportation or valet services as alternatives.
Airports have also enhanced security and accessibility measures, including special lanes for those with limited mobility and Mobile Passport Control to expedite entry.
These efforts aim to minimize delays and ensure a smooth high season, though congestion and heavy passenger traffic are expected to continue posing logistical challenges.
Rocky Start to the Holiday Season
The busy season kicked off with significant difficulties for travelers. Both FLL and MIA reported dozens of delays and cancellations, particularly on Saturday, December 20, the day before Christmas.
FLL recorded 265 delayed flights and 11 cancellations, affecting airlines such as United Airlines, Spirit, Frontier, Air Canada, American Airlines, and JetBlue. Major delays were observed for flights to Newark, Toronto, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago O'Hare.
Miami International also reported 275 delays and three cancellations, primarily impacting flights to London Heathrow, Toronto Pearson, Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago O'Hare, with significant effects on American Airlines, Delta, United, and JetBlue.
These disruptions highlighted not only the seasonal surge in passenger numbers but also the strain on airport infrastructure to handle a vast amount of both domestic and international flights.
Authorities emphasize that planning ahead is crucial: checking flight status, arriving with ample time, and setting up alerts on official airline apps for real-time updates. Patience and advance preparation become vital to avoiding issues during a season where every minute is precious.
Travel Tips for the Holiday Season in South Florida
What are the busiest days at Miami International Airport during the holidays?
The busiest days at Miami International Airport are expected to be December 26 and 27, as well as January 2 and 3, with more than 190,000 passengers each day.
How early should travelers arrive at the airport?
Authorities recommend arriving at least three hours prior for international flights and two hours for domestic flights to ensure enough time for check-in, security checks, and parking.
What parking options are available at Miami International Airport?
Passengers can choose from the new Ibis Garage, Economy Park and Ride for lower rates, valet parking, or the Cell Phone Waiting Lot for free short-term parking.
What should travelers carry in their hand luggage?
Travelers are advised to keep medicines, important documents, chargers, and a change of clothes in their carry-on luggage in case of delays in accessing checked baggage.