How early should I arrive at the airport?

Planning extra time for security and checkpoints

Security and checkpoint waits have become less predictable at many U.S. airports due to staffing strains tied to the ongoing partial government shutdown. On busy travel days, travelers at major hubs have faced multi‑hour lines; at smaller airports the impact varies. The safest approach is to assume longer-than-normal screening times until staffing and operations normalize.

Practical timing guidance:

• For domestic departures, allow at least two hours for screening at large airports, and consider adding an extra hour during peak travel periods like spring break or holidays.
• For international departures, plan three hours or more, especially if you need to clear additional checks, passport control, or have checked baggage.
• Factor in time to reach the airport when traffic is heavier than usual and any extra time to recheck bags or complete airline counters.

Ways to reduce risk and speed your journey:

• Enroll in expedited screening programs such as TSA PreCheck and Global Entry if eligible; their lanes remain among the most reliable ways to shorten security wait time.
• Check live airport wait‑time tools and your airline’s app before leaving home; some airports post real‑time estimates.
• Complete online check‑in, use curbside or kiosk bag drops where available, and travel with carry‑on only when feasible.
• Arrive with documents ready and liquids/electronics accessible to move through screening faster.

For tight connections, build extra buffer time or rebook to a later flight if possible. At the moment, treating security as a potential bottleneck will reduce the chance of missed flights and last‑minute stress.