How Early Should I Get to an Airport for a Domestic Flight?

Airport arrival times vary depending on the carrier.

Arrive 60 to 90 Minutes Before Your Flight

The majority of airlines, including AirTran and American Airlines, recommend arriving 60 minutes prior to your flight, or 90 minutes before departure if you have to check any luggage. Delta Airlines advises an arrival time of 75 minutes prior to your domestic flight.

Arrive Earlier in Certain Situations and Places

Midwest Air recommends arriving at least 90 minutes prior to your flight during the holiday season. Southwest Airlines has a chart of arrival times for various airports, and recommends arriving two hours or earlier for flights out of Chicago Midway, Hartford, Las Vegas, Philadelphia, Oakland and Phoenix.

Bottom Line

Airlines vary in their recommendations as to when you should arrive at the airport for your domestic flight, but it's always better to be safe than sorry. Arriving 90 minutes or earlier for your flight will leave you enough time to check in and get through security without time worries.

References

• Southwest Airlines: Suggested Airport Arrival Times
• AirTran Airways: How Early Should I Arrive at the Airport?
• Delta Airlines: Check-in Requirements
• US Airways: Airport Check-in Times
• Midwest Air: Holiday Travel Tips