Labor Day Weekend Travel: Flight Delays, Cancellations, and Driving Safety Tips Across North Carolina

NORTH CAROLINA — As Labor Day weekend brings one of the busiest travel periods of the year, North Carolina travelers are facing both airport delays and heavy road traffic, with officials urging caution for those flying or driving.

Flight Delays and Cancellations

According to FlightAware, several North Carolina airports reported significant disruptions on Saturday:

• Charlotte Douglas International Airport: 68 delays, 6 cancellations
• Raleigh-Durham International Airport: 28 delays, 4 cancellations
• Piedmont Triad International Airport: 2 delays, 2 cancellations

Officials recommend travelers check flight statuses before heading to the airport and plan for potential wait times during the holiday rush.

AAA Warns Drivers to Prepare

With millions expected on the roads, AAA is reminding drivers to prepare their vehicles and avoid common mistakes that cause breakdowns. Last Labor Day, AAA responded to more than 383,000 stranded motorists nationwide.

Before hitting the road, drivers should:

• Inspect tire tread and inflation, including the spare.
• Test the battery for wear or slow starts.
• Check brakes for grinding or vibrations.
• Replace worn wiper blades.
• Top off all fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid.

Emergency kits should be stocked with first-aid items, water, jumper cables, flashlights, and a basic toolkit.

Safe Driving Reminders

Authorities also offered reminders to reduce risks during long drives:

• Watch your speed — excessive speeding contributes to nearly one-third of fatal crashes.
• Avoid distractions — focus solely on the road, not phones or devices.
• Don’t drive impaired — arrange a designated driver or rideshare if drinking.
• Stay rested — fatigued driving can be as dangerous as impairment.
• Buckle up — seatbelts remain the most effective way to prevent serious injury or death.

If Car Trouble Strikes

Even well-prepared drivers may face unexpected breakdowns. AAA recommends:

• Pulling over safely, away from traffic.
• Using hazard lights.
• Staying with your vehicle if possible.
• Calling for roadside assistance.
• Following Move Over Laws to protect emergency workers and stranded drivers.

Are you experiencing airport delays or planning a long drive this Labor Day weekend? Share your travel updates and tips with readers at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.