How early should we arrive at airport?

[KimT]

I realize this is a silly question, but I have not flown since 9-11 and I am not sure how early I should arrive at the airport before my flight. I looked on Southwest website and it said 1 hour. But I have been hearing 2 - 3hours before takeoff. What is the correct info? Thanks! I really don't want to arrive any earlier than possible, but I also don't want to be rushing either.

 

[madthemouse]

If your talikng about MCO airport, and are on Southwest, then arriving about an hour early will be plenty. I try to get to the airport about 60-75 min. before departure to drop of the car and check-in.

 

[safetymom]

I would allow at least an hour and a half. I fly a lot for business and there are still airports with long lines at security. Once you are through that you wouldn't have any problems. Many people in the line were moaning in Chicago that they would probably miss their flights because of the line last week.

So to be on the safe side allow a little more time. There are lines at MCO also depending on when you are flying.

 

[waughzee]

I would call the airline at your airport and ask.

I use a very small airport and they only recommend 1 to 1-1/2 hours early.

 

[GAIL HAYDEN]

If you are leaving MCO on a Saturday, add an hour to any suggested time frame. That place is a zoo on Sat.

 

[DisneyBrat]

What about flights from MCO on Fridays? We are suppose to return at 10:45... I am wondering would we have time to eat at Chef Mickeys and get to the airport in time??? Hey Gail I think we are going to Disney the same time from the looks of the counters

 

[dahirsh]

Gail,

so, you are saying that if I have a flight home at 10:30 on a Saturday morning (which I do) that I should expect the airport to be a madhouse?

How early would you plan on arriving at MCO?

Deb

 

[kda]

If you're flying Southwest, many people plan to be there 2 hours early to get their boarding assignment (since there's no assigned seats). Unless you have little ones and will be allowed to pre-board, Southwest boards in 3 groups -- A, B, and C. The earlier you check in at the curb or desk, the better your chance of getting into group A or B and getting a better choice of seats.

If you don't care where you sit, don't worry about any of this. It's not like your seat will be given away if you're not there early. Have a great trip! Remember ---- flying is the quickest way to get there and start your vacation.