Michigan Fourth of July Travel Delays Could Be Brutal This Year

Fourth of July weekend travel in Michigan is going to feel a little different this year, and by "different," I mean pack snacks, charge your phone, and spiritually prepare to stare at the back of the person's head in front of you at the TSA checkpoint.

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According to Luxury Link, arriving flights in Michigan jump 16.0% during Independence Day week, ranking the state #32 for holiday travel demand. That may not sound wild until you remember that airports operate with the grace of a one-armed man at a self-checkout on double-coupon day.

What Michigan Flyers Should Expect

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AAA estimates that at least 2.6 million Michiganders will travel at least 50 miles, and if that travel takes you to the airport, the real fireworks may begin before takeoff. Luxury Link's analysis found Michigan flight cancellations rose 86.4% during the July 4 travel period. Flights delayed more than three hours climbed to 72.8%, and delays of at least 15 minutes jumped 51.9%.

So yes, your flight may be fine. Or you might get to know the Detroit Metro Airport's layout with ample time to explore and enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

How to Avoid the Worst of It

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Book the earliest flight you can. Morning flights give airlines fewer hours to stack up problems. Avoid tight connections, especially if you are flying through areas that are prone to bad weather.

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Check in early, download the airline app, turn on alerts, and don't pack your patience in checked luggage... you're going to need that handy in your carry-on. If you can fly Tuesday or Wednesday instead of July 3 or 6, do it.

Plan Like Delay Is Coming

Bring chargers, snacks, medicine, entertainment, and backup plans for your backup plans. Assume delays will happen; if they don't show up, great. If they do, at least you won't be angrily rationing one granola bar for a family of four at Gate A47.