Video Transcript: Airport anxiety on the rise in Central New York as travel demand hits record levels
Jessica Klein: Last year, Syracuse Hancock International Airport saw over 3 million passengers, making it the busiest year in its 75-year history. March was the fifth busiest month ever with TSA screening over 140,000 travelers. Flying is one of the safest ways to travel, but for many passengers, it doesn’t feel that way. According to the National Library of Medicine, up to 40% of people worldwide experience flight anxiety, and 25 million Americans have a severe fear of flying. The odds of a fatal plane crash are 1 in 13.7 million, compared to 1 in 95 for a car accident. Experts say the key to managing flight anxiety is to focus on facts, not fear. Strategies like deep breathing, distraction, and therapy for severe cases can also help ease flight anxiety. Even with stricter safety measures in place, many travelers still feel uneasy about flying. Factors like turbulence, crowded airports, and recent news can add to anxiety, making the experience stressful for nervous passengers. With flight anxiety affecting so many, some travelers are turning to alternatives such as rail travel.
Jason Abrams: Last year, Amtrak set a record for ridership in company history. We had nearly 33 million riders across our entire national network.
Klein: According to the airport authority, there are some tips you can take ahead of time to lessen general anxiety. If you’re parking at the airport, be sure to book it ahead of time, so you’re not scrambling to find an open lot. Arrive two hours before your flight to make sure you don’t miss your departure and check your flight status with the airline directly.
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (NCC News) — As air travel demand surges, more passengers are experiencing stress before they even step on a plane. Syracuse Hancock International Airport recorded its busiest year in history in 2024 with more than 3 million passengers. March was among the airport’s most crowded months with TSA screening more than 140,000 travelers.
“The airport authority does not manage staffing for TSA, airlines, or parking vendors,” the Syracuse Regional Airport authority communications team said. “However, we focus on keeping runways clear, ensuring open gates, and maintaining operations so flights stay on schedule.”
Travelers are encouraged to book parking in advance, arrive two hours before departure, and confirm their flight status directly with their airline to avoid delays and reduce stress.
Even when flights run smoothly, many travelers experience anxiety at the airport. According to the National Library of Medicine, up to 40% of people worldwide experience flight anxiety, and 25 million Americans have a severe fear of flying. Experts say much of that anxiety starts before passengers even board their flight, as long wait times and crowded spaces can contribute to travel stress.
Some travelers are turning to alternatives.
“Last year Amtrak set a record ridership for company history. We had nearly 33 million riders across our entire national network,” said Jason Abrams, senior public relations manager at Amtrak. “People like taking the train, and people are taking the train more than they have ever before.”
Abrams said comfort is one reason some travelers are choosing trains over planes.
“Taking a plane is not always enjoyable. You have to get to the airport hours before, you’re scrunched in a small seat,” Abrams said. “On a train, there’s no middle seat, you have plenty of room to relax, and you can get up and walk around.”
For those flying, travel experts recommend strategies to help manage anxiety before reaching the airport. Deep breathing, listening to music, and using distractions like movies or books can help reduce stress.
With another 3 million passengers expected at Syracuse Airport this year, travel officials say preparation is key to easing stress at the airport.
“Preparation can make a big difference,” the SRAA communications team said. “The more you plan ahead, the smoother your experience will be.”