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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Abigail Nicholson

Expert advice on exactly when you should arrive at the airport

Manchester Airport were no stranger to headlines in the summer as check-in and security queues took over terminals.

Passengers were met with long queues to get through security, cancelled flights and plenty of disruption as the airport was affected by a spike in demand for international travel - following the last two years of covid-related travel restrictions - and staffing shortages.

Chaotic scenes at the airport have included queues so long that they have run into car parks, luggage abandoned on the runway and flights being cancelled at late notice. With October half-term not too far away, Which? have checked exactly what time you should be arriving at each airport, as rules vary.

READ MORE: 'Amazing' young woman killed in high speed crash gets final wish

What time should I get to Liverpool John Lennon Airport?

JLA said they advise people to arrive two to two and a half hours before their flight is due to depart as they have not suffered from delays like some airports have this summer. They said passengers clear security on average in 15 - 20 minutes. They said arriving three to fours hours early is too early as check-in for flights is not open so far in advance.

What time should I get to Manchester Airport?

Follow your airline’s guidance on how early you need to be at the airport before your flight. As a general guide, you will need to have checked in and be ready to go through security at least 2 hours before your flight departure time.

What time should I get to Heathrow Airport?

Two hours before your flight for short-haul trips and three hours before for long haul. It also said it advises passengers to check with their airline.

What time should I get to Gatwick Airport?

At the time advised by your airline, which is generally two hours before short-haul flights and three hours before long-haul.

What time should I get to Stansted Airport?

At the time advised by your airline (typically two hours before short-haul and three hours for long-haul).

What time should I get to Luton Airport?

No earlier than the time advised by your airline - typically two to three hours before your flight.

What time should I get to Edinburgh Airport?

When check-in desk opens (between two and three hours before the flight, depending on the airline).

What time should I get to Birmingham Airport?

In line with check-in desk opening times, usually three hours before the scheduled flight departure time.

What time should I get to Bristol Airport?

At the time advised by your airline (which can be two or three hours before departure).

What happens if I miss my flight because of long airport queues?

Unfortunately you’re unlikely to be able to claim from your airline if the delay is outside their control. If you follow the airline’s advice, though, and arrive at the airport in good time you might be able to claim on your travel insurance.

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