Arriving at the airport

Ready for Takeoff: When to Arrive at the Airport?

Heading off on a holiday and wondering about the best time to get to the airport? Timing is key to starting your trip without a hitch. Remember, even if your flight is still on the ground, a missed check-in could mean you're not getting on that plane. So, here's a little tip: besides sticking to the times your airline suggests, factor in a little extra time for those check-in lines, security checks, and the little adventure to your gate.

Good news for early birds! Some airlines offer airport check-in on the eve of your morning flight. Drop off your luggage then and, come flight day, breeze straight through to security.

Opting for online check-in or the night-before option? Smart move! But hey, we still recommend arriving at the airport at least two hours before your flight. This way, you can navigate through security at a relaxed pace. Flying from Heathrow? Aim to clear security at least 35 minutes before takeoff, as it can be quite a walk to some gates.

Heads-up: Check-in deadlines can vary between 45 minutes to 2 hours before your flight. It's a good idea to double-check with your airline for specifics. Once you've checked in, aim to be at your boarding gate at least 30 minutes before you're set to jet off.

Here are the checking-in policies of some popular flight operators leaving from the UK:

British Airways check-in details

• Airport check-in kiosks available with boarding pass printing.
• Online check-in available, closes 60 minutes before long-haul and 45 minutes before short-haul flights.
• Baggage can be checked through to the final destination on connecting flights within the same booking.

British Airways check-in information

Emirates check-in details

• Online check-in available from 48 hours up to 90 minutes before departure.
• Bag drop available at self check-in kiosks or desks no later than 90 minutes before the flight.

Emirates check-in information

EasyJet check-in details

• Online check-in opens 30 days before and closes 2 hours before departure.
• Airport check-in available between 2 hours and 40 minutes before the flight.

EasyJet check-in information

Ryan Air check-in details

• Online check-in available from 60 days before with seat reservation, or 24 hours before without seat reservation, closing 2 hours before departure.
• Airport check-in available but incurs a fee.

Ryan Air check-in information

Qantas check-in details

• Online check-in available 24 hours to 2 hours before domestic and 24 hours to 90 minutes before international flights.
• Airport check-in varies between 30-60 minutes for domestic and 30-120 minutes for international flights before departure.

Qantas check-in information

Virgin check-in details

• Online check-in opens 24 hours beforehand and closes 70 minutes before the scheduled departure
• Airport check-in desks close 60 minutes before departure

Virgin check-in information

*Information correct at time of writing and is subject to change.