JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — As the Fourth of July holiday period wraps up, airports across the country—and here in Jacksonville—are seeing one final surge of travelers heading home.

According to AAA, a record 72.2 million Americans were expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between June 28 and July 6, making this the busiest Fourth of July travel period on record. 

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also projected it would screen more than 18.5 million travelers nationwide during this stretch.

Despite the record-breaking numbers, many passengers at Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) said their travel experience was smooth and well-organized.

“We have traveled into different airports and we really like Jacksonville. It’s a really nice airport, everything runs smoothly—we really don’t have a problem here,” Deirdre Murray, a traveler returning home to Chicago, said.

While long lines and large crowds were present throughout the day, flyers said security lines moved quickly and airport staff kept things flowing efficiently.

As flights continue into Sunday evening, airport officials continue to encourage travelers to arrive at least two hours early, especially during holiday peaks, and to check flight statuses before arriving at the airport.

Travelers at Jacksonville International Airport tell First Coast News they’re ending the weekend on a high note, with no major delays or headaches.

Murray also tells First Coast News that traveling out of town for Fourth of July weekend has become a family tradition, and coming to Jacksonville this year really made her weekend eventful. 

“we’re usually here this week, every year and we had a great time went to some parties and relax, chilled out. Stayed in a nice resort for a couple of days,” Murray said.