5.5M Travelers to Use Port Authority’s Airports and Crossings This Memorial Day Weekend

On May 21, 2025

Nearly 5.5 million travelers are expected to use the Port of Authority of New York & New Jersey’s airports and vehicular crossings during the 5-day Memorial Day peak travel period from Thursday, May 22, to Monday, May 26.

The agency anticipates nearly 2.1 million passengers will travel through John F. Kennedy International, Newark Liberty International, LaGuardia and New York-Stewart International airports from Thursday through Monday, a decrease of about 1% from the all-time high seen during same period in 2024. Friday and Monday are anticipated to be the busiest days at the airports. International seat capacity is expected to be 1% higher than the same period in 2024, reflecting a continued resurgence and interest in international travel.

The Port Authority strongly encourages all travelers to plan ahead and allow for additional travel time. Travelers should expect longer wait times due to higher passenger volume and ongoing construction. All passengers on domestic flights should arrive to the airport at least two hours in advance of their departure time and passengers on international flights should arrive at the airports at least three hours in advance of their departure times. Travelers are strongly advised to check the Port Authority’s air travel tips for information on preparing for their trips, including how to find real-time wait time information for TSA security lines, information on parking lot availability, AirTrain maps and schedules, directions for public transit and for-hire vehicle information.

On the roads, the agency estimates that approximately 3.4 million vehicles will use its bridges and tunnels over the holiday period, similar to volume from the same period in 2024. To accommodate anticipated significant volume, all non-emergency repairs and construction projects at its crossings will be suspended from 5 a.m. Friday, May 23, to 5 a.m. Tuesday, May 27. A separate travel advisory for any lane closures or service changes for the remainder of that week will be issued next week.

All travelers, whether by air or road, are strongly encouraged to allow for additional travel time or take public transit whenever possible. Travelers who plan to use the Port Authority’s facilities should note the following service changes that will be in effect from Thursday, May 22, to Monday, May 26, and allow for additional travel time.

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