By Alistair Finlay and AAP

IT'S not just Father Christmas and his reindeer who take to the skies every year on Christmas Day.

Every December 25, thousands of people crisscross Australia or travel overseas to catch up with loved ones or take family holidays.

And for many, it's a day to take advantage of cheaper-than-average airline ticket prices.

The cost of flights in the lead-up to Christmas ...