For domestic flights, the general recommendation is to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows enough time for checking in (or using online check-in), checking bags if needed, passing through security, and boarding. During busy travel periods or at large airports, giving yourself this buffer helps avoid stress from unexpected delays like long security lines or parking issues. For international flights, it is advisable to arrive at least 3 hours before departure due to more extensive check-in procedures, immigration, and security requirements. In some airports or regions, you might find advice suggesting 1.5 hours for domestic flights, but the commonly accepted and safest guideline remains 2 hours for domestic flights in the U.S. and 3 hours for international flights globally. Other factors to consider include the airport size, whether you have checked luggage, and whether you are traveling during peak times or holidays, which may require more time. Summary:
- Domestic flights: 2 hours before departure
- International flights: 3 hours before departure
You can also speed up your airport experience by checking in online beforehand and using expedited security programs like TSA PreCheck if available. This advice is consistent across several expert and airline sources as of mid-2024 and 2025.
