(NEXSTAR) — As Thanksgiving looms just days away, the holiday season is upon us, regardless of whether we’re fully prepared. During the same festive period last year, the TSA reported that nearly 39 million travelers passed through U.S. airport security from December 19 through January 2, making it one of the busiest travel times annually.

Though many aspects of flying are beyond our influence, choosing the right airline can significantly ease your journey. An analysis by FinanceBuzz, based on Department of Transportation data from the last four holiday seasons, reveals that selecting an airline can be just as crucial for a smooth experience.