Ruth Haines
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we travel. With new health protocols and checks in place, it's important to plan your trip to the airport carefully. Whether you're travelling internationally or domestically, it's always best to be prepared and give yourself plenty of time to get through the airport. While every airport is different, and the time needed to get through check-in, security, and boarding can vary, it's generally recommended that you arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours early for international flights to account for any potential delays.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Time to arrive at the airport | 2-3 hours before the flight for international flights, 90 minutes for domestic flights with TSA PreCheck |
| COVID-19 documentation | Required for all passengers, can be verified online or at the airport |
| COVID-19 test kits | Allowed in carry-on and checked baggage if unused, otherwise must be properly packaged and handled as a UN3373 Category B infectious substance |
| Masks | Compulsory to wear a mask at the airport and throughout the travel experience |
| COVID-19 test centres | Available at the airport, booking an appointment is recommended |
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What You'll Learn
International flights typically require earlier arrival than domestic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to plan ahead when travelling by air. International flights typically require earlier arrival at the airport than domestic flights. The general guidance is to arrive at the airport at least two to three hours before an international flight and two to three hours before an international flight during high-traffic seasons.
For instance, at Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport (SCL) in Chile, travellers are asked to arrive around three hours before international flights and three and a half hours during peak periods. Jamaican airports generally recommend giving yourself two to three hours for international departures. Qantas recommends checking in no later than two hours before an international flight, and 45 minutes before a domestic flight. Delta recommends arriving at least 90-120 minutes before an international flight.
The variation in airport arrival time depends on several factors, including the airport's size and structure, the availability of online or self-check-in, and the presence of stowed baggage. Larger airports may have longer walks to get to the gate, and some airports, like Munich's Franz Josef Strauß Airport, require a shuttle to get between certain gates. Travellers with children or those requiring wheelchair assistance should also plan to arrive earlier.
Additionally, during the pandemic, it is important to consider COVID-19 requirements and regulations. Passengers should review the CDC's considerations for travel during COVID-19 and be aware of any restrictions or requirements at their destination, such as testing or vaccination mandates. Airports may have specific testing facilities with their own requirements, such as the need for a boarding pass or appointment. It is recommended to pack smart and be aware of any prohibited items, including certain COVID-19 test kits with diagnostic samples, which must be properly packaged and handled.
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COVID-19 document checks and health protocols may cause delays
Firstly, it is mandatory to wear a face mask when accessing the airport and during your entire travel experience. This is a critical safety measure to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. At the airport, you will be required to present valid identification, such as a passport or national ID card, along with your boarding pass or flight booking confirmation. It is recommended to have these documents readily available to facilitate a smoother process.
COVID-19 document checks, including vaccine certificates, test results, and health declarations, are crucial aspects of airport health protocols. These checks are often conducted manually, which can result in long queues and delays. To expedite this process, some airports may require digital or paper-based verification of your COVID-19-related documents. It is advisable to review the specific requirements of your departure and arrival airports, as well as any transit locations, to ensure you meet all the necessary health protocols.
Additionally, be mindful of the items you pack in your carry-on and checked baggage. TSA allows one oversized liquid hand sanitizer container, up to 12 ounces, in your carry-on bag. However, COVID-19 test kits containing diagnostic samples, such as nasal swabs or vials of sputum, are not permitted in carry-on baggage. These must be properly packaged and identified as a UN3373 Category B Infectious Substance when transported in checked baggage or shipped as cargo.
To avoid delays, it is essential to comply with all security measures and instructions from airport personnel. Be prepared for varying screening protocols and technologies at different airports, such as the use of Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) for identity verification. Remember to pack any necessary medications or other essential items in your carry-on baggage and to declare any prohibited items, such as firearms, to the appropriate authorities.
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TSA PreCheck members can arrive 90 minutes before departure
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is recommended that passengers allow extra time when arriving at the airport. TSA PreCheck members can take advantage of expedited screening procedures and shorter wait times, allowing them to arrive just 90 minutes before their departure.
TSA PreCheck® is a program by the Transportation Security Administration that allows members to undergo a quicker screening process at the airport. Members can save time during the security screening, which is especially beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic when additional safety measures may be in place. By enrolling in TSA PreCheck, passengers can reduce their time spent at the airport and minimize physical contact with others.
To become a TSA PreCheck member, individuals can pre-enroll online and then visit an enrollment center to complete the process. The online application takes approximately five minutes, and the in-person visit typically takes around 10 minutes. During the in-person enrollment, applicants provide their biometric data (fingerprints and photo), verify their identity documents, and pay the application fee. It is important to note that the application fee must be paid in person at a TSA enrollment center, as online payment is not available for first-time applicants.
Once approved for TSA PreCheck, members will receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN). This KTN can be added to airline reservations to access the benefits of the program. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces and DOD Federal civilians can use their DOD ID number as their KTN. It is important to ensure that travel reservations are updated with the KTN to enjoy the benefits of expedited screening.
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Pack sanitiser and wipes in carry-on bags
It is always a good idea to pack sanitiser and wipes in your carry-on bag when flying, but this is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic. While it is important to be mindful of the spread of the virus, it is also crucial to remember that airports and airlines have strict rules about what can and cannot be carried on board.
Hand sanitiser is a liquid, and as such, it falls under the restrictions on liquids that can be carried on board. For almost 20 years, travellers have been restricted to carrying liquids in 3.4-ounce (100 ml) containers, which must be packed inside a clear plastic bag. However, as an exception to this rule, the TSA is currently allowing passengers to carry one oversized liquid hand sanitiser container, up to 12 ounces per passenger, in their carry-on bags. These larger containers will need to be placed in a bin during the screening process.
It is also worth noting that while unused COVID-19 test kits are typically allowed in carry-on baggage, test kits containing diagnostic samples, such as nasal swabs and vials of sputum, are not. These samples are considered infectious substances and must be properly packaged, handled, and identified as such during transportation. Passengers should check with their carrier before packing COVID-19 test kits containing diagnostic samples in checked baggage or shipping them as cargo.
To ensure a smooth process at the airport, it is recommended that travellers start with an empty bag when packing their carry-on. This way, you can be certain that you are not carrying any prohibited items, and it reduces the risk of your bag triggering an alarm during security checks. With the introduction of CT scanners at airport checkpoints, security checks are becoming more efficient and revolutionising the way liquids are scanned.
So, when packing your carry-on bag, be sure to include a large bottle of hand sanitiser and some wipes, but also keep in mind the other restrictions and recommendations to ensure a safe and stress-free journey.
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Vienna Airport is reportedly efficient, 2.5 hours is plenty of time
Vienna International Airport is reportedly efficient, and 2.5 hours is usually plenty of time to check in and board your flight. The airport is known for its efficient road, rail, and air transport links, making it easily accessible to travellers. It is the largest hub in the region and serves as a gateway to the East, with a dense network of European destinations and long-haul flights to Asia, North America, and Africa.
The airport is located in Schwechat, 18 km (11 mi) southeast of central Vienna and 57 km (35 mi) west of Bratislava, Slovakia. It is well-connected to the city centre by the Vienna S-Bahn line S7, which takes approximately 25 minutes, and the City Airport Train, which takes 16 minutes. Additionally, the underground railway station has been expanded to accommodate long-distance trains, and the airport is adjacent to motorway A4, which leads directly to central Vienna.
When travelling during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to allow extra time at the airport due to additional safety measures and requirements. These may include wearing a mask, practising social distancing, and undergoing health screenings or COVID-19 testing. It is recommended to review the CDC's considerations for travel during COVID-19 to determine your personal risk and to familiarise yourself with the requirements at your destination.
However, Vienna Airport's efficiency in handling passenger volume has been called into question, with reports of security screening points struggling to cope during peak transfer periods. This inconsistency between Terminals 1 and 3 may be a factor to consider when planning your arrival time, especially if you are travelling during a busy period. Nevertheless, with efficient planning and navigation, 2.5 hours should still be sufficient for checking in and reaching your gate.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before your international flight. This is to account for any potential delays caused by COVID-19 document checks and health protocols.
You will need to present your passport and any required COVID-19 documentation, such as proof of vaccination or a negative test result. You may also need to provide information on your travel itinerary and any checked baggage.
Yes, you may be able to check-in online and upload your documents before arriving at the airport. However, if the airline needs to verify your passport or COVID-19 documentation in person, you will need to complete the check-in process at the airport.
Yes, COVID-19 testing facilities are available at many airports. You can usually access these facilities for free and without an appointment, but it is recommended to book in advance. Don't forget to bring your passport or national ID document, as well as your boarding pass and/or flight booking confirmation.
