For domestic flights, the common recommendation is to arrive at the airport about 2 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows enough time for checking in (if needed), dropping off checked bags, passing through security, and reaching your gate comfortably. If you have already checked in online and are traveling with carry-on only, arriving about 1 to 1.5 hours prior might suffice, but 2 hours is safer to account for delays or longer security lines. Key points for domestic flights:
- Check-in usually closes about 30-45 minutes before departure.
- Security lines can vary; programs like TSA PreCheck or CLEAR can speed up the process.
- Boarding often starts around 30-60 minutes before departure.
For international flights, arriving 3 hours ahead is recommended due to extra security, passport control, and possible visa checks. Arrival time recommendations can vary somewhat depending on the airport size and airline policies, but two hours is the broadly accepted rule for domestic flights in most cases.
