Originally Posted by
TNDeltaFlyboy
This is a common misconception. The PWA says it MAY be denied if it touches the period around the stated holidays not that it WILL be automatically denied. I've had one approved for a Christmas trip. Granted, these days we can assume it will always be denied; however, we shouldn't spread rumors that APDs/IVDs will always be denied around holidays because it's just not true.
Pro tip: APDs and IVDs process ahead of straight drops during the PCS process, and are guaranteed to go through if you have positive coverage even during a holiday blackout. This can be a smart way for a junior person to snipe the holiday off using an APD/IVD ahead of senior pilots using a PD.