Myrtle Beach Airport Expects 20,000 Labor Day Travelers

Myrtle Beach International Airport officials expect approximately 20,000 passengers to fly in and out of the terminal over the Labor Day holiday weekend, spanning Friday, September 4, through Monday, September 7, 2026. The holiday period marks the traditional end of the busy summer travel season along the Grand Strand.

Airport Spokesperson Ryan Betcher noted that national travel volume remains high throughout the holiday weekend. Even if conditions at the local airport remain manageable, air travel delays elsewhere in the country can ripple into local arrival and departure schedules. Officials strongly urge all travelers to monitor their flight status closely before heading to the airport.

This holiday weekend closes out a unique summer season for the facility, which experienced changes following the departure of Spirit Airlines and the end of its operations in early May 2026. Betcher stated that while the carrier's exit impacted passenger throughput during the summer months, airport leadership is actively pursuing new air service development initiatives to rebuild capacity ahead of the next summer season. The airport typically sees its highest peak volume earlier in the summer during June and July.

For Grand Strand residents and visitors using the airport over the holiday weekend, practical preparation remains key. Passengers can take steps such as selecting off-peak travel days to avoid potential rushes. Some area travelers chose Sunday flights specifically to minimize exposure to peak airport crowds.

As the region transitions into the autumn months, local residents frequently take advantage of September and October to travel out of the airport. Officials advise passengers to arrive earlier than usual to secure parking, clear security checks, and ensure a smooth experience at the terminal as off-season travel begins.