The Economy is Bad...or is it?

As the busiest air travel day in U.S. history approaches, with the TSA projecting to screen a record three million people, travelers need to plan their airport arrival times carefully. Here’s a guide to help you navigate the increasingly packed airports effectively:

Basic Arrival Time: 90 Minutes

Typically, 99% of travelers experience waits of 30 minutes or less at security checkpoints, and boarding usually starts about 30 minutes before domestic departures. Thus, travelers with only carry-on items should arrive at least 90 minutes before their flight.

Using a Mobile Boarding Pass: Subtract 20 Minutes

Checking in and obtaining your boarding pass via your mobile device before heading to the airport can save you up to 20 minutes by bypassing the check-in kiosk.

Peak Travel Times: Add 30 Minutes

Airports are busiest during mornings, late afternoons, and weekends. To accommodate for longer lines, add an extra 30 minutes to your arrival time. Also, consider using mobile ordering for any terminal services like coffee.

Major Airports: Add 20 Minutes

Larger airports, such as JFK in New York, often have longer walks and lines due to their size. Therefore, if you’re flying from a major airport, add 20 minutes to your arrival buffer.

Parking or Rental Car Drop-off: Add 20 Minutes

Returning a rental car or finding parking can be time-consuming, especially when dealing with crowded lots or off-site drop-offs. Reserve your parking in advance to avoid last-minute hassles.

Checking Bags or Traveling with Pets: Add 30 to 45 Minutes

Checking luggage can take considerable time, from printing tags to dropping off the bags. Additionally, airlines typically require bags to be checked 30 to 45 minutes before departure. Traveling with pets adds more time as airlines need to approve them for travel, requiring an agent’s assistance.

International Flights: Add 30 Minutes

International travel involves additional steps such as passport verification and earlier boarding times. Ensure you allocate at least an extra 30 minutes for these procedures.

TSA PreCheck or Clear: Subtract 20 Minutes

Those with TSA PreCheck typically wait 10 minutes or less at security. These services expedite the screening process, saving about 20 minutes. However, their effectiveness can vary with airport traffic.

Executive Status or Premium Fare: Subtract 20 Minutes

Frequent flyers with elevated status or premium tickets often benefit from dedicated check-in and security lanes, which can save around 20 minutes.

Traveling with Young Kids: Add 60 Minutes

Navigating the airport with young children can be challenging, requiring additional time for security checks and potential temper tantrums.

Wheelchair Assistance: Add 90 Minutes

Passengers needing wheelchair assistance should plan for additional time, as attendants are often in high demand. Reserving a wheelchair in advance is recommended.