I definitely agree if it's an international flight, especially during COVID, since they've resorted to checking vaccination status in person at the check-in desk (no app or check-in terminal options). If it's a 2h flight to Chicago and there are another 12 every 30min if I miss mine...Not that worried. Also, I'm a big proponent of Penn Station to Jamaica LIRR and the AirTrain to JFK - it always takes a predictable amount of time, even if it's crowded during rush hour.
My home base just happens to have the best airport in the country (PDX) and along with some of the best amenities (good coffee, a free theater playing local films and documentaries, etc…) it’s also in the city, never more than 15-20 minutes away if you live in town. Also businesses can’t charge more than they would at any other of their locations which is just an added benefit.
That being said I usually stroll in about 30 minutes before my flight, no shame.
I quite like to arrive on time, so about 15 mins before the security gate closes. Obviously I only time things this way when I know the airport. An unfamiliar airport, I'd always try for about 40 mins before the security gates closes. Spending two hours in an airport just waiting, for me, is no fun at all.
Spretzatura is absolutely getting to the airport well in advance, having time to get coffee or beer, depending on the time of day. Read some actual magazines to catch up, maybe take a walk and people watch. What could be simpler?
The only thing the late checkers do benefit from is when the flight is delayed after you arrive at airport. It is like the universe rewards their lack of planning!
I’m not scared of the person who shows up to the airport late. I’m scared of the person who arrives late to the airport and is calm.
I like to leave just enough time to have a beer before boarding. Maybe like an hour or so!
Nothing to add because you are 100% correct, start to finish.
I definitely agree if it's an international flight, especially during COVID, since they've resorted to checking vaccination status in person at the check-in desk (no app or check-in terminal options). If it's a 2h flight to Chicago and there are another 12 every 30min if I miss mine...Not that worried. Also, I'm a big proponent of Penn Station to Jamaica LIRR and the AirTrain to JFK - it always takes a predictable amount of time, even if it's crowded during rush hour.
I'd much rather have a little time to grab a coffee, read, and not feel rushed than sprint through the terminal at top speed to make my flight.
Thanks for capturing all that runs through my head every trip I take with a “we’ll be there in plenty of time” person. Priceless and spot on!
My home base just happens to have the best airport in the country (PDX) and along with some of the best amenities (good coffee, a free theater playing local films and documentaries, etc…) it’s also in the city, never more than 15-20 minutes away if you live in town. Also businesses can’t charge more than they would at any other of their locations which is just an added benefit.
That being said I usually stroll in about 30 minutes before my flight, no shame.
I got sweaty palms just reading about being last on the plane.
I quite like to arrive on time, so about 15 mins before the security gate closes. Obviously I only time things this way when I know the airport. An unfamiliar airport, I'd always try for about 40 mins before the security gates closes. Spending two hours in an airport just waiting, for me, is no fun at all.
Spretzatura is absolutely getting to the airport well in advance, having time to get coffee or beer, depending on the time of day. Read some actual magazines to catch up, maybe take a walk and people watch. What could be simpler?
The only thing the late checkers do benefit from is when the flight is delayed after you arrive at airport. It is like the universe rewards their lack of planning!