How Early should we arrive at the airport?

Question

we flying from chicago oh-are to cozumel mexico #of hours before plane leaves??

Answer 1

Check with the airline for their recommendation and/or check O'Hare's web site.

There are variables - are you driving to the airport and parking?  What time of day is the flight (early - midday - late evening)?

I'd say be IN the airport a minimum of one hour before the scheduled take-off time.

Have a great trip!

Answer 2

it depends

if you're flying quite far away you should arrive about 4 hours before boarding (e.g. chicago to London)

if you're flying locally about 2 hours (e.g. chicago to new york)



and if you're flying not locally but not really far away (e.g. chicago to mexico) i'd say about 3 hours

Answer 3

two hours bring something to do.

Answer 4

Two hours early. After all, you have many things to do,

"before" your departure, to get through Customs Inspection.

Please, don't forget your "passport" in the rush. <}:-})

Answer 5

They say get there two hours early because they want you to have enough time between check in and security. You can get there an hour or an hour and a half early, but if you don't have your tickets yet and are flying coach definitely get there an hour and a half or two hours early. The lines for economy class are always longer, and it will take longer to get through security.  

Answer 6

Give yourself at least 2 hours.  Airport policies usually won't let someone check in for an international flight after 1 hour till the flight departs anyways.  Besides, bag checking and checking in can take awhile if there is a line so be prepared.

Answer 7

it depends on the airlines but usually 2 hours in advance is advisable.

Answer 8

3 hours,especially if your flying from chicago o hare.You'll be flying to mexico which is out of the united states basically.Anyway time flies in the airport...Get it...Time flies...

Answer 9

They recommend 3 hours for international flights.

This is so you don't miss it & aren't stressed due to the long wait due to security measures.

Answer 10

The general recommendation is 2 hours prior for an international flight.  But that means you should CHECK IN 2 hours prior -- don't forget to allot time for parking the car, finding the right gate, etc.  Chicago is a large airport.  Make sure you know where you need to be.

Please disregard the answer above regarding the farther the distance, the earlier you should arrive.  The only designation is Domestic or International. Pleaes also disregard the person that suggested 1 hour prior.  There is a cut-off after which they will not allow you to board. There are now laws in place that require tranportation companies to transmit a complete manifest to US authorities a minimum of 1 hour prior to departure.

Chicago Airport will have a website with up to date security advisories.  Check the website the night before, or morning of, to make sure there aren't any surprises.