(From AirSafe.com)

From late November to the end of December is a time of heavy leisure travel as families and friends join together for the holidays. Travel during this time of year has its own special concerns during normal times, and since September 11 times extra security and unexpected changes have become the norm. The following holiday travel advice is especially relevant given the current circumstances.

Confirm Your Trip
Because of the rapid changes in security and operating procedures, as well as changes in the availability of flights, you should contact the airline at least a day in advance to confirm your flight. Depending on the cause, you may be compensated for changes in schedules or for overbooked flights. The following provide information about how to deal with these situations
Compensation for Delays and Overbookings
How to Complain Effectively

Arrive Early
Since September 11, going through the passenger screening checkpoint has become much slower. During busy times, the wait at many major airports can be more than an hour, so arriving at least two hours early is a good idea. The following links offer advice on how to deal with this increased level of security:
Advice for the Infrequent Flyer
Airport Security Issues
Dangerous and Prohibited Items

Unaccompanied Children
Several airlines have put new travel restrictions on unaccompanied children, in some cases allowing younger children only on nonstop flights. Also, because only ticketed passengers are allowed past security, you may have to contact the airline ahead of time to get permission to escort a child to the gate. For more information, visit the following pages:
Child Safety in the Air
Top Ten Tips for Children Traveling Alone

Expect Crowded Aircraft
Holiday travel usually means aircraft that are more crowded than usual. You can do your part by limiting the size and weight of your carry-on luggage. For more luggage hints, check out the following.:
Baggage Information Resources
Carry-on Baggage Advice
Top Ten Baggage Tips

Other Information
Airlines Without Fatal Events
Fatal Events in the Month of December