Many passengers expressed gratitude for the end of the 43-day government shutdown, which had stretched federal employees — including TSA officers — without pay.
SAN ANTONIO — One of the busiest travel days of the holiday season brought a steadier-than-expected flow of passengers inside the San Antonio International Airport on Tuesday, where crowds were lighter than travelers anticipated.
Airport leaders expect about 137,000 travelers to pass through the terminals by December 1, but by midday Tuesday the atmosphere remained calm. Travelers moved easily through security and ticket counters — a surprise to many who had prepared for long waits.
Jeremy Moffitt, who arrived from Houston en route to Phoenix, said he showed up hours earlier than usual after hearing warnings about heavy congestion.
“All I heard about last night on the news was ‘busiest day,’” Moffitt said. “I came here five hours early. And now I can’t even check my bags in. So completely shocking.”
The only significant lines observed Tuesday morning were outside at terminal drop-off zones. Inside, passengers appeared relaxed, with few signs of the typical holiday rush.
Airport officials continue to urge travelers to check their flight status before heading out, as delays and cancellations remain possible during peak travel periods.
Many passengers also expressed gratitude for the recent end of the 43-day government shutdown, which had stretched federal employees — including TSA officers — without pay.
Moffitt, who frequently travels for work, said the shutdown affected people close to him.
“I have a lot of family that was impacted,” he said. “Friends that work in TSA and TSA Clear areas — they’re doing their job, so they should be paid. The government shutdown was really an impact against everybody.”
As holiday travel ramps up, passengers said they’re feeling thankful — both for smooth airport operations and for the resolution in Washington that arrived just in time for family gatherings.