How Early Should You Arrive at the Airport?

Many of us experience a certain amount of anxiety when it comes to worrying about leaving enough time to get to the airport and catch a flight without having to run to the departure gate.

You can soon lose an hour trying to park your car and waiting for the shuttle to take you to the terminal. A good way of avoiding that particular stress would be to book an airport transfer so that you can get to and from the airport as quickly and easily as possible.

With so many factors and potential issues to contend with, such as getting through security, how early should you arrive at the airport?

Are you catching a domestic or international flight?

One of the first key questions to answer that determines your timings is whether you are going to be boarding a domestic or international flight.

A typical recommended timescale for a domestic flight is to get to the airport and check in at least 90 minutes before the flight time. These days, you can always use the online check-in facility to cut down your waiting times. All you have to do is negotiate the security line and you should be good to go.

If you are traveling at a peak time of the day when the airport will be busy, which is most hours of the day, in reality, it makes sense to reduce stress levels by arriving at least two hours before you are due to depart for a domestic flight.

It could take you a while to get through security because of the volume of other passengers in the airport. Make sure you take these potential delays into account when planning your arrival and timings.

Allow more time for an international flight

Most airlines recommend you arrive at least three hours before your departure time for an international flight.

The same rules of engagement apply as for a domestic flight. You need to allow enough time to get through security as well as negotiating the baggage line to deposit your luggage with the carrier.

It is wise to remember that every airline has a cut-off point where they won’t accept you for checking in. Some airlines insist on all passengers checking in up to an hour before the departure time. Check what your airline stipulates and make sure you allow plenty of time to comply with this requirement.

The departure time is not the same as when the doors close

If you turn up to the gate with about twenty minutes to spare before the departure time you run the risk of being turned away. Many airlines close their doors up to 30 minutes before the departure time. They are more likely to close the doors early when the flight is full. That means you should be at the gate ready to board at least thirty minutes before the flight time. 

You can reduce your levels of anxiety about missing a flight by planning ahead. Book an airport transfer to avoid parking issues and shuttle transfer delays, and allow plenty of time to check in, get through security, and find your way to the right terminal gate.