This is how early you should get to Glasgow Airport before your flight
This time of year is one of the busiest for airports across the country as millions head off for sunnier climates and make the most of a break from school and work. Getting to the airport with plenty of time to navigate check ind and security without being far too early is key to a straightforward start to your holiday.
But just how early should you be at the airport is the question. A recent Tik Tok trend the 'airport theory', where people test whether they can arrive at the airport very close to their departure time and make it through security and to their gate in time to board, has been slammed by airline and travel experts over its riskiness.
Instead there is a sweet spot time to arrive at the airport to help avoid any last minute dashes to the gate.
Glasgow Airport said as a general rule passengers should be at the airport three hours before a flight to a European destination. For a long haul flight that time rises to four hours.
And if you are travelling on a domestic flight you should be at the airport two hours before.
Glasgow Airport also advise checking with your airline too.
They add: "Many airlines offer an online check-in option which will save you time when you are at the airport, giving you plenty of time to enjoy some food or shopping before you fly."
They also offer guidelines for the time you should check in for your flight. They say: "Check-in times can vary depending on your type of flight, so please arrive with sufficient time to pass through check-in and security.
"Check-in times can usually be found on your individual ticket or itinerary, or alternatively by contacting your airline directly."
And their website reiterates: "You should arrive at the airport two to three hours before your flight departs and allow enough time for your journey to the airport. This should include any traffic delays, particularly if you have a longer journey to the airport.
"At each of the arrival areas there will be a help phone if you require special assistance, such as a wheelchair."
Edinburgh Airport don't advise specific times but say that your arrival time at the hub depends on the type of traveller you are.
They say: "Some people like the time to get through security and enjoy a pre-flight refreshment, maybe browse duty-free, while others like to arrive, go through security, and straight to the gate.
"However there are a few things to consider, most importantly the time your airline's check-in desk opens."
And they added: "Word of advice. Time your arrival at the airport for this opening - don't arrive too early!
"We know that sounds silly but there's no point being here at 0400 if your check-in desk opens at 0600 as it'll only mean a longer wait for you and others.
"There's no harm in factoring in some additional time but there's no need to be here hours before you have to be."
Scotland's biggest and busiest airport also says it's important to factor in your journey to the airport. They said: "One of the first things to think about is how you are getting to the airport. Are you being dropped-off? Are you parking? Getting the bus or tram?
"This will impact your journey time so plan ahead, check with your provider for any route or network issues, and allow yourself plenty time to get here."
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