Quick answer
- Schengen / domestic flights: aim to arrive about 2 hours before departure.
- International and long-haul flights: about 3 hours before departure.
- Add time for checked bags, peak travel days, large hubs, families and special assistance.
- Check-in and bag drop often close 40–60 minutes before departure, and gates close 15–30 minutes before.
The rule of thumb
| Flight type | Recommended arrival |
|---|---|
| Domestic or within Schengen, hand luggage only | 1.5–2 hours before |
| Domestic or within Schengen, checked bags | 2 hours before |
| International (non-Schengen) | 2.5–3 hours before |
| Long-haul / intercontinental | 3 hours before |
General guidance only. Always follow your airline's and airport's recommendations.
Know the deadlines that really matter
- Check-in / bag drop closes — often 40–60 minutes before departure, earlier for some long-haul flights.
- Boarding starts — often 30–45 minutes before departure.
- Gate closes — often 15–30 minutes before departure.
Missing the bag-drop deadline usually means missing the flight, even if you are physically at the airport.
When to leave even earlier
- peak holiday periods, Monday mornings and Friday evenings
- large hubs with long walks between security and gates
- non-Schengen flights that require passport control
- travelling with children or a lot of luggage
- needing special assistance
- unfamiliar airports or long journeys to the airport
How to save time at the airport
- Check in online and download your boarding pass.
- Travel with hand luggage only when possible.
- Prepare liquids and electronics for security before you reach the scanners.
- Use fast-track security if it is available and worth it for you.
- Check your terminal and gate before leaving home.
Arrived early? Make the time count
Arriving early is less painful when you have somewhere comfortable to wait. A lounge gives you food, drinks, Wi-Fi and seats away from the crowds, so the buffer you build in for safety becomes useful time to eat, work or relax.
Plan your departure
Check lounges and opening hours at your airport →Wondering whether it is worth it? Read Are airport lounges worth it?
Good to know
Lounge facilities, opening hours, prices and access rules vary by location and can change. Always check the specific lounge before you travel.
Lounge facilities, opening hours, prices and access rules vary by location and can change. Always check the specific lounge before you travel.