"Pack your patience:" Record Memorial Day madness hits Colorado
This summer's travel season is about to take off, with Colorado once again on pace to smash Memorial Day records, AAA Colorado spokesperson Skyler McKinley tells Axios Denver.
Why it matters: Coloradans aren't staying home even as economic pessimism persists.
By the numbers: Denver International Airport officials say more than 443,000 travelers are expected to pass through security over the long weekend — matching last year's historic surge.
Friday and Monday will be particularly packed, with upwards of 80,000 passengers daily.
The big picture: More than 45 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles between Thursday and Monday — topping a 20-year record, AAA data shows.
The Federal Aviation Administration is preparing for its busiest summer in 15 years. Nearly 54,000 flights are expected to take off nationwide on Thursday alone.
An estimated 87% of travelers nationwide — or about 39 million people — are choosing to hit the road this year.
Between the lines: More travelers opting to drive could be a sign of lingering distrust in air travel following a recent string of alarming tech and safety lapses at airports nationwide, including DIA.
Still, FAA acting administrator Chris Rocheleau insists air travel is "the safest form of transportation in world history."
The intrigue: Road trippers in Colorado will catch a break at the pump this year, McKinley tells Axios Denver.
Average Colorado gas prices are hovering around $3.58 per gallon, down from $3.71 this time last year.
Pro tips: "The further you can get away from the highways when you're filling up your vehicle, the more you will save," McKinley advises.
The worst days to drive will be Thursday and Monday, especially on the I-70 corridor, he says.
To avoid gridlock, travel early in the day — or better yet, leave Saturday or Sunday.
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