U.S. airlines are bracing for what stands to be the busiest Thanksgiving travel period on record, testing a strained aviation system that’s only just bounced back from flight restrictions prompted by the government shutdown.

Sprinkle in persistent air-traffic controller shortages, calamitous winter weather brewing in the Pacific Northwest and Midwest, as well as fuel-supply constraints, sporadic tech outages and the rollout of REAL ID requirements, and aviation experts say travelers should brace for disruptions and extra stress.

Industry group Airlines for America anticipates U.S. airlines will carry a record of more than 31 million passengers from Nov. 21 through Dec. 1. The Federal Aviation Administration, meanwhile, expects this Thanksgiving to be the busiest in 15 years. In any event

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