State Department issues worldwide travel alert

A rare worldwide warning from the U.S. State Department urges caution during the holiday season. As a result, security is being stepped up at airports nationwide.

“I’d gladly do more security to feel safe where I am,” said Kevin Kenny, who is traveling to Calgary from Palm Springs.

At Los Angeles International Airport, officers patrolled the terminals Tuesday with assault rifles and dogs. LAX is expected to be the busiest airport in the nation this weekend with a record 2.1 million travelers.

Palm Springs International Airport, on the other hand, turned out to be a much quieter scene.

“This is the best airport to fly into, definitely,” said Maria Lambing, who flew in from St. Louis.

“Everything went on schedule, on time, no complaints,” said Mike Lambing.

“We’re just happy to get our flights and go home now for Christmas,” said Diane Jardine, who is flying to Canada with her husband.

Travelers heading out of PSP told us lines are nothing compared to those at major airports where you can expect much longer waits for screening this holiday weekend.

Even TSA Pre-Check passengers may have to take off their shoes in some airport, but it’s still the best option to save time when you fly.

Local travelers say the extra precautions are not a reason to be scared to fly.

“I think we should feel safe in our own country and we shouldn’t be scared by terrorists and we should fight back and we should be proud of where we live,” Kenny said.

“It’s the holidays and people are trying to help each other out because people are trying to get to their families,” Lambing said.