As the government shutdown ends, U.S. airlines expect a record Thanksgiving travel period, with over 31 million passengers predicted to fly between Nov. 21 and Dec. 1. Airlines faced delays and cancellations due to air traffic controller shortages during the shutdown, costing the industry millions.

United Airlines reported a 16% increase in bookings after the shutdown, with international trips seeing a 10% boost. The carrier expects to fly 6.6 million customers during the holiday season. American Airlines plans the most flights, while Spirit Airlines has reduced capacity and furloughed pilots to cut costs.

Read more at NBCUniversal: Thanksgiving air travel expected to hit record levels, airlines say