Memorial Day weekend marks the official start of the summer travel season, with airlines and travel industry preparing for one of the busiest periods of the year.

American Airlines is implementing operational preparations to handle the expected surge in passenger traffic during the summer months. The airline is taking steps to ensure smooth operations as travel demand increases significantly compared to off-peak periods.

Meanwhile, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in New York announced it will offer free admission to all veterans starting Friday, expanding its previous policies ahead of the Memorial Day weekend. The museum cited the deep connection that post-September 11th veterans feel to the site as the reason for the expanded access.

Memorial Day weekend traditionally sees some of the highest travel volumes of the year as Americans begin summer vacation plans. Airlines typically increase staffing and adjust schedules to accommodate the seasonal demand surge that continues through Labor Day weekend.

The travel industry views the Memorial Day to Labor Day period as critical for annual revenue, with many destinations and tourism-related businesses generating a significant portion of their yearly income during these months.