Thanksgiving Holiday Travel Begins

Wednesday, November 21st 2007, 7:12 am

By: News On 6

Long delays are expected at the stateâ€™s two major airports and on Oklahomaâ€™s highways for the next couple of days, but officials say that will not stop travelers this Thanksgiving holiday weekend. AAA estimates that nearly 39 million people will travel 50 miles or more this weekend. That is a lot of motorists on the stateâ€™s highways and travelers waiting in line at the Tulsa International Airport and Will Rogers Airport in Oklahoma City.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority is predicting congestion on the Turner Turnpike between Oklahoma City and Tulsa, especially around the tollgate at Stroud and at a bridge project, which has traffic down to one lane each way. Traffic problems are expected to be worse on the Will Rogers Turnpike, especially Sunday at the tollbooths near Big Cabin and through several construction zones.

"Make sure they have the change, know what lane to go through, make sure they have the Pike Pass, that's going to make things safer and smoother," said OHP trooper Antonio Porter.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol plans to have more troopers than usual out this weekend, watching for drivers who are speeding, drinking or not wearing their seatbelts.

Concerning airport travel, TIA officials say if you are picking someone up, have the airline information handy and check the status of the flight online before you head to the airport at www.tulsaairports.com.

Officials say whether you are flying or driving, give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination.

Related story:

11/20/2007 Holiday Travelers Should Plan On Turnpike Delays