Wondering how early should you get to the airport? Get foolproof timing for domestic flights (2 hrs), international (3 hrs), and connecting flights - plus baggage cutoff times and boarding tips.
How Early Should You Get to the Airport? Quick Answer
For domestic flights, arrive 1.5–2 hours before boarding (not departure!). For international flights, get there 2.5–3+ hours early. If you're checking bags, add 30 extra minutes—airlines cut off baggage drop 60+ minutes before takeoff.
- Domestic flights: Arrive ~2 hours early (30–45 min for check-in/bag drop, 15–45 min for security).
- International flights: Arrive 3+ hours early (+ time for passport control/customs).
- Connecting flights: Allow 1.5–2 hours (same airline/terminal) or 2+ hours (different airlines/airports).
Factors That Affect Airport Arrival Time
Time of Day
Early morning (5-8am) and evening rush (4-7pm) typically have longer security lines.
Season & Day
Summer holidays, major holidays, and weekends see higher passenger volumes.
Baggage
Checking bags requires additional time. Many airlines close bag check 45-60 minutes before departure.
Flight Type
International flights require more time for passport control and additional security screening.
How Early to Get to Airport - Airport-Specific Guide
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta (ATL)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 30-45 min (6-9am, 4-7pm)
As the busiest airport in the world, ATL can have long security lines. The Plane Train connects concourses, but allow extra time to reach your gate. TSA PreCheck is available and highly recommended.
Los Angeles International (LAX)
Domestic: 2.5 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 45-60 min (weekends)
Known for traffic congestion and busy terminals. Consider the terminal you're departing from, as transfer between terminals can take significant time. Traffic to LAX is often heavy, so factor in extra driving time.
O'Hare International (ORD)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (mornings)
Chicago's O'Hare is prone to weather delays, especially in winter. Security wait times can vary dramatically between terminals. The airport is large, so allow time to reach your gate after security.
John F. Kennedy (JFK)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 60 min (evenings)
JFK has six terminals that aren't all connected post-security. Traffic to/from Manhattan can be unpredictable, so build in buffer time. International departures often require additional document checks.
London Heathrow (LHR)
Domestic/EU: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 60 min (6-9am, 5-7pm)
One of the world's busiest airports with extensive security procedures. Terminal 5 is particularly busy. Allow extra time if connecting between terminals. Non-EU passport holders should expect longer immigration queues.
Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Schengen flights: 2 hours
Non-Schengen: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (mornings)
Paris CDG is known for its complex layout. Terminals are connected by shuttle buses and trains that can take time. Security and passport control can be lengthy, especially during summer tourist season.
Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
Schengen flights: 1.5 hours
Non-Schengen: 2.5 hours
Peak times: Add 30 min (business days)
Efficient German organization makes Frankfurt relatively smooth, but it's a major hub with two large terminals. Security is thorough but generally well-staffed. Allow extra time if departing from a remote stand.
Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS)
Schengen flights: 2 hours
Non-Schengen: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (mornings)
Schiphol is a single-terminal airport but extremely large. Walking distances to gates can be substantial. Security is centralized in some areas and at gates in others. Additional security screening is common for flights to the US.
Singapore Changi (SIN)
Regional flights: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 30 min (evenings)
Despite being one of the world's most efficient airports, Changi's size and attractions mean you should arrive early. Immigration and security are typically swift, but the airport is worth exploring with its gardens, cinema, and shopping.
Tokyo Haneda (HND)
Domestic: 1.5 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 30 min (mornings)
Extremely efficient operations, but international departures require additional security screening. Document checks can be thorough. The airport is well-organized with clear signage in multiple languages.
Hong Kong International (HKG)
Regional flights: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (weekends)
A massive airport with long walking distances. Security and immigration are generally efficient but can get congested. The airport has two widely separated terminals connected by a train system.
Dubai International (DXB)
Regional flights: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 60 min (midnight-4am)
One of the world's busiest international hubs with peak activity overnight. Security can be thorough with additional screening at gates. Terminal 3 (Emirates) is enormous with potentially long walks to gates.
Sydney Airport (SYD)
Domestic: 1.5 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (mornings)
Australia's biosecurity and immigration procedures are thorough. International Terminal (T1) is separate from domestic terminals (T2, T3) requiring a shuttle transfer if connecting. Security screening has been enhanced in recent years.
Auckland Airport (AKL)
Domestic: 1 hour
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 30 min (evenings to Asia)
New Zealand's main gateway has separate international and domestic terminals. Biosecurity checks can be thorough. The international terminal has been expanded but can still get congested during peak hours.
Melbourne Airport (MEL)
Domestic: 1.5 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (mornings)
Melbourne's Tullamarine Airport has four terminals with T2 serving international flights. Security and customs procedures can take time, especially during morning departure banks to Asia and evening flights to the Middle East.
São Paulo–Guarulhos (GRU)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 60 min (evenings)
Brazil's busiest airport can experience significant congestion. Traffic to the airport from São Paulo can be extremely unpredictable. Document checks for international flights can be time-consuming, especially for flights to the US.
El Dorado International (BOG)
Domestic: 1.5 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (overnight)
Bogotá's main airport has modernized significantly but can still experience congestion. Security procedures can be thorough, particularly for US-bound flights. Immigration lines can be long during peak hours.
Jorge Chávez International (LIM)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (midnight)
Lima's airport is a major hub for connections throughout South America. Traffic to the airport can be extremely congested. The airport undergoes expansion but currently has limited facilities that can become crowded.
O.R. Tambo International (JNB)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (evenings)
Johannesburg's main airport is Africa's busiest. Security procedures can be thorough and time-consuming. Traffic to the airport can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours. Document checks for international flights are detailed.
Cairo International (CAI)
Domestic: 2 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 60 min (overnight)
Cairo's airport can experience significant congestion. Security is multi-layered with checks at entrance and before boarding. Traffic in Cairo is notoriously unpredictable, so allow extra time to reach the airport.
Addis Ababa Bole (ADD)
Regional flights: 2.5 hours
International: 3.5 hours
Peak times: Add 45 min (overnight)
Ethiopian Airlines' hub can become extremely busy during connection banks. The new terminal has improved capacity but security and immigration can still be slow. Document checks are thorough for all flights.
Tips for Faster Airport Processing
- Check in online and download your boarding pass to your phone
- Join trusted traveler programs like TSA PreCheck or Global Entry
- Pack efficiently with liquids easily accessible for security screening
- Monitor your flight status before heading to the airport
- Use airport apps that provide real-time security wait times
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How Early to Get to Airport - for Domestic Flights
Short answer: Get there 2 hours early. But let’s break it down:
| Situation | Arrival Time | Why? |
| Basic traveler (no PreCheck) | 2 hours | TSA lines + Starbucks chaos. |
| TSA PreCheck/CLEAR | 1.5 hours | Skip 75% of the line. |
| Busy airports (ATL, LAX, JFK) | 2.5 hours | Atlanta’s tram ride alone eats 20 mins. |
| Peak times (6-9 AM, 4-7 PM) | Add 30 mins | Everyone’s escaping NYC on Friday. |
Pro Tips:
- Southwest flyers: Check in exactly 24hrs early (boarding group A > everything).
- “I made it in 45 mins once!” Cool, but don’t risk it. I’ve also slept on LAX floors.
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How Early to Get to Airport - for International Flights
Arrive 3 hours+ early for international flights. Why? Extra steps like passport control, customs, and stricter document checks eat time. If you’re flying into/out of countries with slower processing (e.g., China, Japan, or during peak travel days), aim for 3.5–4 hours early to avoid panic.
| Country/Region | Recommended Arrival Time | Key Considerations |
| Europe (EU/Schengen) | 2.5–3 hours | Passport control can take 20–40 mins. Heathrow (LHR) requires bags checked 3 hours early. |
| Asia (China, Japan, India) | 3.5–4 hours | Strict document checks + crowded airports. Beijing Capital Airport (PEK) often has long lines. |
| Middle East (Dubai, Qatar) | 3 hours | Smooth process, but some airlines (Emirates) require earlier check-in for premium passengers. |
| Australia/New Zealand | 3 hours | Customs requires extra screening for food/agricultural items. |
| U.S. departing to international | 3 hours | TSA security + global entry/pre-clearance lanes save time. |
Key Tips:
- Peak travel days (holidays, weekends): Add 30–60 minutes.
- TSA Pre✓/Global Entry: Shaves time off security but not passport control.
- Baggage deadlines: Most international airports require bags checked 1–2 hours early (e.g., Ryanair cuts it at 2 hours; no exceptions).
How Early to Get to Airport - for Connecting Flights
Minimum Layover Times
- Domestic → Domestic: 1 hour (if same airline).
- Domestic → International: 2 hours (you’ll need to re-clear security).
- Separate Tickets: 3+ hours. No, Expedia won’t save you if flight #1 is late.
Airline Cheat Codes
- Same airline: They’ll rebook you for free if they caused the delay.
- Different airlines: You’re on your own. Always book a buffer day for critical trips.
Worst Airport for Connections
- O’Hare (ORD): Terminal B to C = 25 mins if the train’s working.
- CDG (Paris): You’ll need a map, a translator, and a prayer.
How Early to Get to the Airport: Check-In & Baggage DDLs
Airlines will slam the check-in counter shut even if you’re sweating and screaming “I’M RIGHT HERE!” Check-in closes 45-60 minutes before departure for most flights, but baggage cutoff is even earlier—usually 60-90 minutes for big international trips. Budget airlines like Spirit are ruthless: miss their 60-minute baggage deadline by 10 seconds? Congrats, your suitcase isn’t flying. Always check your boarding pass for exact times—airline apps glitch, and gate agents won’t care if you’re “in line.”
How Early Can You Check In for a Flight?
Check-in timelines vary by airline and flight type. Here’s when you can start checking in (online or at the airport):
| Airline Type | Domestic Flights | International Flights | Key Notes |
| Major Airlines (Delta, United) | Online: 24 hours before Airport counter: 3 hours before | Online: 24 hours before Airport counter: 4 hours before | Airport counters close 45-60 mins before departure. |
| Budget Airlines (Spirit, Frontier) | Online: 24 hours before Airport counter: 2 hours before | Online: 24 hours before Airport counter: 3 hours before | Airport counters close 60 mins before departure. |
| International Carriers (Emirates, Lufthansa) | Online: 24–48 hours before Airport counter: 3 hours before | Online: 24–48 hours before Airport counter: 3–4 hours before | Some allow check-in 48+ hours early for long-haul flights. |
Pro tip: Check in online ASAP to grab better seats and avoid airport lines. *The above info is subject to change, so it's just for reference.
How Early Can You Check Bags?
Baggage deadlines are stricter than check-in. Do NOT cut it close:
| Airline Type | Domestic Flights | International Flights | Key Notes |
| Major Airlines (Delta, United) | 60 mins before departure | 90 mins before departure | Some airports (JFK, LAX) close baggage earlier during peak times. |
| Budget Airlines (Spirit, Frontier) | 60 mins before departure | 60–90 mins before departure | Spirit charges $50+ for late bags. No exceptions. |
| International Carriers (Emirates, British Airways) | 90 mins before departure | 2–3 hours before departure | Oversized bags (skis, surfboards) often need extra time. |
*The above info is subject to change, so it's just for reference.
Real Talk: Carry-on only if you’re cutting it close. I’ve worn 4 outfits at once to avoid checked bags.
How Early to Get to Airport - When Does Boarding Start/End?
Boarding times are sneakier than you think. Airlines say boarding starts 30-45 minutes before departure, but gates close 10-15 minutes before takeoff—even if you’re in line. Miss that cutoff? You’re SOL.
Boarding Times by Flight Type
| Flight Type | Boarding Starts | Gate Closes | Key Detail |
| Domestic (Delta, United) | 35 mins before departure | 15 mins before departure | Basic economy boards last. |
| International (Emirates) | 45 mins before departure | 20 mins before departure | Passport checks happen before boarding. |
| Budget (Spirit, Frontier) | 30 mins before departure | 30 mins before departure | They’ll leave without you. No jokes. |
| Red-Eye Flights | 25 mins before departure | 10 mins before departure | Less crowded = faster boarding. |
Why gates close early: Pilots need to do safety checks, weight calculations, and paperwork. Your panic sprint won’t change that. *The above info is subject to change, so it's just for reference.
“But I’m At the Gate! Why Won’t They Let Me Board?!”
Airlines follow a strict boarding order (even if it feels random):
- First class, biz class, frequent flyers.
- Credit card holders (Delta SkyMiles, United Club).
- Back-of-plane economy (to avoid aisle chaos).
- Basic economy (you’re last, always).
Reddit story: A user watched Delta close the gate 18 minutes early because the pilot “had a schedule.” Moral: Be at the gate 30 mins before departure, no matter what your boarding group says.
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Pro Tips to Avoid Missing Your Flight
Look, we’ve all been the idiot sprinting through Terminal B with a Starbucks spilling everywhere. Here’s how to not be that person:
1. Treat Boarding Time Like Gospel
Your flight “departs” at 3pm? Cool. Boarding starts 30-45 mins before that, and gates slam shut 15 mins early. Set a phone alarm for boarding time, NOT departure.
2. Check In Online 24 Hours Early
Do this while you’re doomscrolling before bed. Why?
- Lock in your seat (basic economy gets stuck in the middle).
- Get a digital boarding pass (airport Wi-Fi will fail you).
- Avoid check-in lines (Spirit’s counter is purgatory).
3. Google “[Your Airport] + Security Wait Times”
TSA’s official app is a lie. Redditors swear by:
- iFly.com for real-time security line updates.
- Peak hours: Mornings (6-9am) and holidays = chaos.
4. Pack Like You’re Going to Jail
- No checked bags = no baggage cutoff stress.
- Wear slip-on shoes (TSA hates your double-knotted laces).
- Keep docs in a Ziploc: Passport, boarding pass, ID. No fumbling.
5. Track Your Gate Like a Stalker
Airlines love last-minute gate changes.
- Enable push notifications on your airline’s app.
- Screenshot your gate info (apps crash mid-sprint).
6. For Tight Connections: Book All Flights on ONE Ticket
If your first flight is delayed, the airline has to rebook you. Mixing airlines? You’re on your own.
7. The “I’m Late” Emergency Protocol
- Skip baggage check (leave the suitcase, save yourself).
- Find a TSA agent and beg: “I’m about to miss my flight!” (Works 60% of the time).
- Gate closed? Find a red jacket (airline staff) and cry. Seriously—they’ll sometimes reopen it.
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FAQs about How Early to Get to Airport
Do you really need to be 2 hours early at the airport?
Yes, for most domestic flights. Airlines typically require check-in 30–45 minutes before departure, and baggage drops close 45 minutes early. Security lines can take 15–45 minutes, depending on the airport. If you’re not TSA Pre✓, skip the risk—arrive 2 hours early. Skipping the buffer could mean missing your flight (and losing money).How early should you get to the airport for international flights?
3 hours early, no excuses. Why? Passport checks + extra security. Baggage cutoff is often 90 mins before departure. Budget airlines (Ryanair) close check-in earlier than majors.What if I’m running late for my flight?
Skip baggage, sprint to security, and beg TSA for the fast lane. Gate agents might hold the plane if you’re close (but no promises).What’s the earliest I can check in?
Online: 24 hours before. Airport counters: 3–4 hours before (international).Does boarding time = departure time?
Nope! Boarding starts 30–45 mins before departure, gates close 15 mins before. Set alarms for boarding time.Can I check bags the night before?
Some airlines (Delta, United) offer early bag drop (4+ hours before)—check their website. Budget airlines? Almost Never.