Travelers at RDU discuss safety precautions ahead of holiday travel

Despite the CDC is urging Americans not to travel for Thanksgiving, some North Carolinians are forging ahead with plans, bypassing the warning and heading out of RDU airport this weekend.

While numbers at RDU are low compared to last year before Thanksgiving, the parking lot of Terminal One shows people are still traveling for the holidays.

It almost looks like business as usual at RDU, with people packed up and hurrying to their flights.

But it’s not business as usual. Travelers are masked. The airport is not as busy. People are distant.

Although the CDC has announced the risks, some people are still choosing to travel – while taking safety precautions.

“It is a personal choice that I made," said Roy Parker.

Roy Parker’s choice is to head South for Thanksgiving – and he’s taking precautions with him.

“I’m wearing my mask, making sure my hands are staying clean," he said. "I will have glasses on during the plane.”

Others punched their tickets for a chance to be around family during difficult times.

“For us and our situation, our grandmother passed away this year, so it is the first time our family is getting together without her," said Crystal Gaddy. "We decided we needed to be there.”

Michael Garber is also traveling the weekend before Thanksgiving for a friend’s funeral.

“Despite the CDC restrictions, it’s more important for me to go," he said.

Some of the travelers heading out today will monitor their symptoms to help prevent spread.

Although COVID-19 numbers are surging across the nation, these travelers are taking their chances – and grateful to see the airlines taking precautions to help keep travelers safe during the holidays.