Contrary to popular belief, turkeys can fly. And so too can millions of Americans who will take to the skies in increasing numbers for the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, according to Airlines for America.

The airlines industry association said Wednesday that an estimated 27.3 million passengers will travel on U.S. airlines from Friday, Nov. 18, to Tuesday, Nov. 29, the heaviest period for Thanksgiving holiday travel. The forecast represents a 2.5 percent increase in travellers from the same time window in 2015.

A4A said "highly affordable airfare" is driving the expected increase.

"The airline industry remains highly competitive, which directly benefits consumers as airfares continue to fall, providing even more opportunities for people to travel for Thanksgiving and throughout the year," A4A Vice President and Chief Economist John Heimlich said.

"Airlines are adding capacity to accommodate the increased demand, and travelers should rest assured that while more people will be flying, there will be more than an adequate number of seats available," he added.

Daily passenger volumes will range from 1.51 million to 2.81 million, with the busiest travel days—in ranked order—expected to be Sunday, Nov. 27; Monday, Nov. 28; and Wednesday, Nov. 23. The lightest travel day is expected to be Thanksgiving Day—Thursday, Nov. 24. http://bit.ly/2fei2w8

MORE CEO DATELINE

• Bank association offers student loan repayments to employees
• Association head accuses federal policy of hurting private college students
• Study questions accuracy of soda association-funded research
• Tour operators group launches review site of member services
• Direct Marketing Association unveils new name