Flight attendant gives the exact day you should fly home for Christmas

Christmas is one of the busiest travel periods in the winter months, with millions jetting off to visit loved ones aboard, heading on a winter sun holiday or embarking on a skiing trip.

But the added pressure of getting to your destination before December 25 can make flying at this time of year rather stressful. Delays and cancellations are more likely at this time of year, too, due to the temperamental weather conditions.

A former American Airlines flight attendant has recommended the best day to travel if you need to get home for Christmas, or are flying abroad for the big day. Cabin crew members from Virgin Atlantic, British Airways and American Airlines have teamed up with Air & Cruise Parking to share their top tips.

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Christmas Eve is actually the best day to travel, according to an ex-flight attendant from American Airlines with over a decade of experience. "Most people aim to fly home a few days before Christmas, but if you want a smoother experience, consider booking your flight for Christmas Eve instead," they said.

"Christmas Eve is surprisingly calm," they explain. "By then, the majority of travellers have already reached their destinations, so the airports are quieter, and flights are often less crowded. Plus, there's a festive atmosphere onboard—cabin crews tend to go the extra mile to make it special, whether that’s wearing Santa hats or offering festive treats."

For those travelling with family, the experienced hostess suggests this option can be particularly stress-free. "You skip the earlier rush and still arrive in time to enjoy Christmas. It’s like sneaking in through the back door while everyone else is queued up at the front."

In terms of winter weather, which can cause chaos when it comes to flight schedules, one flight attendant recommends “adding in extra time” if you’re travelling over winter. Getting to the airport early and checking the status of your flight regularly can help to minimise stress.

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