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Thanksgiving travel reaches near pre-pandemic numbers nationwide

This year, AAA anticipates 53 million travelers for the Thanksgiving holiday nationwide - including a million Arizonans.

PHOENIX — Thanksgiving is about spending time with the people we love, and if COVID-19 has taught us anything, it’s that we should be thankful for every day we’re given.

We hopped on a plane, found a flight and came right down,” said sisters Angela and Kimberly. 

The pair flew into Phoenix from New York to spend time with their mother whose health recently took a turn for the worst. 

“I needed to come and be here for her because that’s what’s important,” said Angela. 

This year, AAA anticipates 53 million travelers for the Thanksgiving holiday nationwide - including a million Arizonans.

The Transportation Administration screened 2.2 million travelers, nearing numbers seen in 2019 prior to the pandemic. 

Typically, there are 120,000 travelers in and out of Phoenix Sky Harbor on a given day, but officials expect thousands more throughout the holidays. 

Angela and Kimberly are just thankful to spend time with their mother. 

“You have to be just grateful with the time that you do have, even with situations that may not be the most comfortable,” said the sisters. “We lived through this COVID-19 and now life still has to go on. That’s the lesson for everyone, be thankful for who you have right now because no day is promised.” 

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