Because when I originally posted, they were accepting walk ins/ drop offs of documents, just like prior to covid. Just found out that everything is by mail now - they changed their rule just today! 24-48 turnaround time is now 5 business days.

Back in early 2020, I booked my ticket on my phone, printed it, then walked into the consulate. Documents got checked and by the end of the day I got an email receipt of my application and I canceled my booking the next day when the mail tracking went active (I did an AA itinerary and used the HOLD option). Was hoping to do the same.

How things have changed with covid.