how early should you get to the airport

The general recommendation is to arrive at the airport two hours before your scheduled departure time for domestic flights and three hours before for international flights. This timing accounts for check-in, security screening, and boarding procedures. If checking bags, experiencing busy travel periods, or flying from a large or busy airport, it may be wise to allow even more time. Programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can help expedite security and potentially reduce how early you need to arrive. Additionally, check your airline's specific check-in deadlines as they usually close counters 30 to 60 minutes before departure depending on the flight type.