Ever fly early a.m. from DFW? Help!

[shatzjsl]

I hope someone can answer my question.

I have a 6:40 a.m. flight out of DFW on AA to MCO on June 15th. Has anyone ever flown out of DFW that early? If so, do I really need to be at the airport at 4:40 a.m? I'm hoping that I can get there at 5:30 and still make it okay.

I have only flown once since tougher security was put in place and that was out of Love field in Dallas. It only took me about 20 minutes to get bags checked and through security.

Thanks in advance!

 

[safetymom]

I would check with the airline to see what time the ticket counter opens. I would allow more than an hour though. They start boarding the plane 1/2 hour before departure so you are only allowing yourself a short amount of time to clear security.

I have found that the security checkpoints at DFW are a bottleneck most of the day. We have walked up about 20 gates and gotten in quicker but I don't recommend that for everyone.

 

[Nebsky]

You dont need to get there that early.
Ive taken that flight many times (I work for AA).

I usually get to the gate about 45 mins - 1 Hour before.

Security at DFW is not bad at all, especially at that time.
During the morning rush, it does back up a little bit, but I have never had to wait more than 10 mins if that.

If it were me, I would show up at 05:40 (if you have no bags to check). If you have bags, show up at 05:30. Be sure to use the Self Service Machines. They will speed you along quickly. If your checking baggage, you can use that, then go up to the counter. The agent will already have your bag tag ready.

I Hope you have a great trip!!!

 

[shatzjsl]

Thanks Safetymom and Jeff!

I was hoping it wouldn't be too crowded that early in the morning! I have never used the Self Service machine so I'll have to look up information on that (unless Jeff is willing to share!)

 

[Nebsky]

The Self Service Machines look just like an ATM.
Just use any credit card with your name on it and it then type in your flight number or PNR (Passenger Name Record).
I will ask you if you want to check in the for the flight and if you have any bags to check. It will also ask you if you want to keep your seat assignment or if you want to choose another.
AFter you make your decision, it will print out your Boarding passes. If you decided to check bags, you will need to go up to the counter and an Agent will help you then load onto the bag belts for TSA and finally down to the Bagroom for delivery onto the plane.
After you go through security (have ID and tickets Handy), be sure to grab something to eat as our breakfast flights are not that filling. They will offer drinks on board. No need for you to go to the Agent Desk. Your already listed on the flight with your documents. The only reason you may want to go to the Agent desk is to ask if they need volunteers for bumping....Good way to get free airtravel...or if you need a little extra time boarding.

If you need anything else, just ask.

 

[shatzjsl]

Thanks Jeff!