First time flyer?

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BethS

At least an hour is right. If you are flying out of a larger airport, you may want to give your self even more time (like 2 hours) just be on the safe side. I don't fly much, but for a couple of my afternoon flights, it took a very long time to get through security just because there were so many people.

eyes nothing like the sun

It does make a difference if you're flying internationally or not. For international flights, I would recommend 2 to 3 hours in advance. For flights within the U.S. an hour to hour and a half is good, but keep in mind August is the end of high season and airports tend to be very crowded during this time. It's also depends a bit on which airport you're departing from. For example, the one closest to me is O'Hare (Chicago) which is one of the busiest airports in the country. Smaller airports (like South Bend, IN) with less traffic usually take less time to check you in and get you through security.

Bottom line: When in doubt, show up as early as you can afford to and never less than one hour before scheduled departure.

Since it's your first flight, I would get there about 10:00, just so you don't get lost in the airport and miss your flight!

guhlio

Depends on the size of the airport. We have a local small one where 45 minutes is safe. Detroit Metro, on the other hand, is big and crowded. We always get there at least hour and a half early. Add to that time for parking and getting inside if not being dropped off at the door. Big airports can take you a long time to walk/take a tram to the gate from check in.

Afternoon flights tend to have quicker check in than morning flights filled with businessmen or the early evening flights.

Be early and save yourself the stress of worrying. You can always walk around and look at the shops, get a snack, etc. while you wait.

jessica

Generally most airlines stop checking bags and passengers approx 1/2 hour before departure times, however some airlines stop 45 min before departure.

With that in mind that means you need to be in the airport and checked in 30-45 min before departure time. Keep in mind that there may be a line at the ticket check in counter, and another line at TSA security checkpoint. My recommendation is to be checked a min. of 1 hr before departure time. If you get there 1 and 1/2 to 2 hrs you Will be safe for sure!

Happy travels!

kempokid2000

i hope all goes well. It depends on your airline. If you check in online, then you only need to get there around 9:30. If you didn't check in online, then try to get there at 9:00

Sharmila

For international flights, the recommended time is about three hours, and for domestic, about an hour and a half is okay- since you're a first time flyer, you may want to allow yourself a little more time. Also, think about the airport and day on which you're flying. If it's somewhere like JFK, and on a Friday afternoon, give yourself more time. It's better to be safe than sorry! If you're flying international on a peak day from a busy airport, arrive at about 8:00. For domestic, about 9:45 should be okay :)

Katracho

10:50 am is the best time.

LiL MiZ

You should get there at least one hour before your flight is scheduled to leave. NO LATER! It's better to be early, than to miss your flight!

paulie

yeah dog, at the very LEAST be at the airport one hour before. one time i was chillin at home and i forgot bout my plane leavin at 7:30. i looked at my cell and saw it was already 6:30 fool. and i live half an hour away from slc international! i jumped up an tried to get to the port in time. i missed it though. you gotta be there before hand dog.

beaver cleaver

Don't wear any metal, no belt, shoes that are easily slipped on and off, very few items in your carry on, have your ID ready. Show up AT LEAST an hour early. Chances are you'll be fine, but snafus happen and the early bird gets the flight.

Melissa â™¥

1030 always an hour before

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