Travelers across the United States are bracing for a tumultuous year in air travel, with industry experts predicting an uptick in delays, cancellations, and overall disruptions. As airlines struggle to rebound from the pandemic’s impacts, staffing shortages and increased passenger volumes are creating a perfect storm of challenges for those looking to fly.

Already, in the first few months of the year, major US airports have reported significant disruptions. The knock-on effects of even minor delays can be catastrophic in such a complex network, leading to missed connections and unplanned overnight stays. The summer season is projected to exacerbate these issues, as vacation travel peaks and airlines push their limited resources to meet demand.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has signaled efforts to mitigate these problems by working closely with airlines to improve scheduling and manage air traffic more efficiently. However, with unexpected weather events like winter storms and hurricanes, there is only so much that can be anticipated.

Passengers are feeling the impact directly in their wallets too. Ticket prices are soaring due to reduced capacity and increased operational costs. Those able to fly are often met with overbooked flights and last-minute gate changes, further adding to the confusion and frustration.

Carriers are also facing intense scrutiny over their customer service practices; there have been numerous reports of travelers experiencing long hold times for customer support and inadequate communication regarding flight changes.

The outlook isn’t entirely bleak—airlines are taking steps to hire more pilots, flight attendants, and ground staff in an attempt to stabilize operations. Some carriers are even simplifying their fare structures to avoid overwhelming passengers and their own systems.

For those planning to travel by air this year, patience and flexibility will be key. Experts recommend booking flights well in advance, considering travel insurance for high-value trips, checking in early, and preparing for contingencies like extended layovers.

As airlines continue navigating these turbulent times, the emphasis remains on finding a balance between profitability and passenger satisfaction—a challenging feat that will define air travel across the US this year.