How to Quickly Drop-off a Passenger at the Airport

Don't keep 'em waiting in the airport terminal too long.

Dropping someone off at the airport can be a real hassle if you don't time it correctly. How do you minimize your time at the airport while ensuring the safety and security of the drop-off? Follow a few simple guidelines to eliminate unnecessary waiting at the airport while allowing your passengers to be in the right place at the right time.

Things You'll Need

• Departure information
• Cell phone or computer with Web access
• Airline name and flight number
• Vehicle

Instructions

Before You Leave for the Airport

1. Find out the scheduled departure time for your passengers.

2. This is important: Verify the airline and flight number. Then double check the info to make sure it's correct.

3. Check the flight status the night before and again three or four hours prior to departure by either calling the airline or going to its Web site. The more information you know prior to leaving for the airport, the better off you will be.

4. Plan to arrive at the airport at least an hour and a half prior to departure. If it's a busier airport like LAX or Chicago's O'Hare, make it two hours.

Time for Drop-Off

1. Drive to the drop-off area of the passenger's airline. Only passengers are allowed past security and to the departure gates.

2. Park at the curb and unload the luggage. Quickly.

3. Check in at curbside, or have the passengers go inside to the check-in counter. A luggage attendant can help them, too. Have some cash on you for a tip, just in case.

4. Say your farewells and off you go!

Tips & Warnings

• Follow the airport signs.

• Make sure you and the person both have cell phone so you can keep in constant contact if need be.

• You may not leave your vehicle at the terminal drop-off area.

• If you do use a luggage attendant, expect to tip $2 to $3 a bag.