Airports: Domestic Flights And Temporary Shutdowns

During the COVID-19 pandemic, former U.S. President Donald Trump considered cancelling domestic flights to coronavirus hotspots. However, no recent sources indicate that airports are closing for domestic flights. In fact, new travel requirements for domestic and international destinations are being introduced in 2025. For example, starting May 7, 2025, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will enforce the use of REAL IDs at airports. Additionally, Delta recommends that passengers travelling within the U.S. arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.

Check-in times for domestic flights

While there is no indication that airports are closing for domestic flights, it is always a good idea to check the status of your departure airport before travelling.

Firstly, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least one to two hours before your flight is scheduled to depart. This will give you ample time to check your luggage, pass through security, and reach your boarding gate. During peak travel times, it is advisable to arrive even earlier to account for longer queues.

Most airlines allow passengers to check in online starting 24 hours before the flight's departure. This can save time and eliminate the need to queue at the airport. However, some airlines may charge additional fees for early check-in, so be sure to check their specific policies.

If you are checking in at the airport, in-person check-in typically opens two to three hours before departure for domestic flights. It is recommended that you check in no later than 45 minutes prior to your flight. At some airports, you must be checked in at least 30 minutes before departure, and you should be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes before departure.

To ensure a smooth check-in process, it is advisable to check your airline's specific check-in policy, be aware of cut-off times for baggage drop, and confirm any group check-in policies in advance if travelling with others.

Travel requirements for domestic flights

As of May 7, 2025, the US Department of Homeland Security will enforce the use of REAL ID at airports and some federal facilities. This means that US travelers must be REAL ID-compliant to board domestic flights.

When traveling within the US, it is recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your departure time. For most airports, you must be checked in at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time. Additionally, you are required to be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes before the scheduled departure.

You will need to show a government-issued photo ID when you fly. Make sure that the name on your ID matches the name on your ticket. If your name has recently changed, bring documentation of the change (e.g. a marriage certificate or court order).

Most airlines allow you to add bags to your reservation at the time of check-in. However, checked bags will not be accepted at the airport more than 6 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.

Potential closure of airports in coronavirus hotspots

In April 2020, President Donald Trump revealed that he was considering a plan to halt domestic flights to coronavirus hotspots in the United States. The country was battling to contain the pandemic, which was projected to claim at least 100,000 lives. Trump acknowledged the difficulty of such a decision, as it would severely impact an already struggling industry. However, he expressed his concern for areas that were particularly hard hit, such as New York, New Orleans, and Detroit, and the potential for the virus to spread further across major hubs.

The potential closure of airports in coronavirus hotspots is a complex issue. On the one hand, restricting travel to and from these areas could help contain the spread of the virus. By limiting movement, the risk of transmission to other parts of the country may be reduced. This strategy could also ease the burden on healthcare facilities in these hotspots, giving them a better chance of managing the influx of patients.

On the other hand, implementing such drastic measures could have significant economic and logistical implications. As Trump noted, the airline industry was already facing immense challenges due to decreased demand and required financial support to stay afloat. Completely shutting down airports in coronavirus hotspots could further cripple the industry and have a domino effect on related sectors.

Additionally, the closure of airports would impact not just leisure travellers but also individuals travelling for essential purposes, such as work or family emergencies. Alternative modes of transportation, like road or rail, may not always be feasible or timely enough for those who need to travel. As a result, people's livelihoods and personal lives could be disrupted.

In conclusion, while the potential closure of airports in coronavirus hotspots may be considered as a measure to curb the spread of the virus, it is a delicate decision that requires careful consideration of the potential benefits and drawbacks. The implementation of such a plan would need to be carefully managed to minimize negative consequences and ensure the well-being of both the economy and the population.

Suggested arrival times for domestic flights

For domestic flights, it is generally recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least 1-2 hours before their scheduled departure time. However, it is important to note that this is just a guideline and the suggested arrival time can vary depending on various factors.

For a smoother and less stressful experience, it is advisable to aim for the upper end of this range, giving yourself at least 2 hours. This allows for potential delays and ensures a more relaxed journey through the airport. This extra time can be particularly beneficial when considering the time needed for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. On average, the 2 hours can be allocated as follows: 20-30 minutes for checking in and dropping off baggage, 30 minutes for passing through security, and 10-20 minutes to reach the gate.

However, if you are travelling without checked luggage and have checked in online, you may be able to arrive closer to the 1-hour mark. This is especially applicable for smaller, regional airports with typically shorter security lines and faster boarding processes.

It is worth noting that some airports and airlines have specific requirements. For instance, certain airports may require check-in at least 30 minutes before departure, and passengers should be at the gate and ready to board 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

Ultimately, when determining how early to arrive at the airport for a domestic flight, it is essential to consider factors such as the size of the airport, the time of travel, airline efficiency, and personal travel preferences.

Real ID requirements for US airports

As of May 7, 2025, all US travelers must have a REAL ID-compliant form of identification to board domestic flights and access certain federal facilities. This can be a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card, which will have a star and/or flag or the word "Enhanced" on it. If you are unsure whether your ID is REAL ID-compliant, you should check with your state department of motor vehicles.

A US passport or passport card is also an acceptable form of identification and can be used instead of a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID card. There are other acceptable forms of ID that can be used in place of a REAL ID, including DHS trusted traveler cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST), a US Department of Defense ID, a permanent resident card, a border crossing card, a federally recognized Tribal ID or Enhanced Tribal Card (ETC), a Canadian provincial driver's license, or a US Merchant Mariner Credential.

If you arrive at the airport without acceptable identification, you may still be allowed to fly. A TSA officer may ask you to complete an identity verification process, which includes providing information such as your name and current address. If your identity is confirmed, you will be allowed to enter the screening checkpoint but may be subject to additional screening. If you do not provide acceptable identification, decline to cooperate with the identity verification process, or your identity cannot be confirmed, you will not be allowed to enter the security checkpoint.

TSA recommends that individuals without acceptable identification arrive at the airport at least three hours in advance of their flight time.

Frequently asked questions