TikTok’s 15-Minute Flight Check-In Trend Backfires: Airlines Give Away Seats
A recent TikTok trend, “airport theory,” suggests arriving only 15 minutes before departure, a timeframe unrealistic for most travelers. While the underlying sentiment—that excessive early arrival is unnecessary—holds merit, the advice is impractical and has reportedly increased searches for missed flights. The optimal arrival time depends on factors such as checked baggage, security pre-check status, individual needs, and the airport’s efficiency. Ultimately, prioritizing arrival time requires balancing risk tolerance with the consequences of a missed flight.
John Q. Hosedrinker