In this post 9/11 era, airport security is more strict than ever before. Due to the thorough check-in processes required to get to your gate, travelers are experiencing more stress than ever as they try to pass through the maze of people, ID checks, luggage scans and personal searches. Use these helpful hints to make your check-in process seamless.
Purchasing Tickets: Purchase your tickets as far in advance as possible. First of all it will save you money, but it will also decrease the likelihood of a personal search. Last-minute flight changes or ticket purchases often flag a person for a thorough search.
Checking In: Most airlines will allow you to check-in online and print your boarding pass at home. This comes in extremely handy for the busy traveler who may not have an extra hour to spare between that final meeting and the time he or she needs to get to the airport. Checking in online can help decrease the stress of having to be at the airport hours in advance and flags airline personnel to delay closing the boarding period if you have not yet arrived.
Airport Arrival: Before you leave home make sure you have proper identification. Once you arrive at the airport prepare to show your boarding pass and identification prior to entering the Security Checkpoint.
Security Checkpoint: Getting through the Security Checkpoint can be the most stressful part of your trip. Make sure to keep your boarding pass in your hands at all times, use the bins for items like your purse, wallet, contents of your pocket, belt, cell phone and shoes. If you brought a laptop make sure to take it out and put the computer in its own individual bin for scanning. Once all your items are in the bins, make sure you watch them enter the X-Ray machine before stepping through the metal detector. Show the FTA employee your boarding pass then go to the end of the X-Ray to gather your belongings quickly.
Boarding the Plane: Now that you've passed the security checkpoint you may have some time to spare for shopping, eating or just sitting and relaxing near your gate. First check the boards of incoming and outgoing flights to find your gate and your departure time. Make sure to allocate your time appropriately until they call for your flight to board over the loudspeaker.
