The Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks dramatically changed air travel in the U.S. and worldwide. Other factors, such as the Internet and fuel prices have also caused profound change in the airline industry. Virtually every aspect of air travel, from purchasing and printing tickets, luggage restrictions and additional fees, and airline services have changed.
Check to see if your flight is on time before heading to the airport, arrive at least an hour before your flight--more if you are not familiar with the airport--and have your driver's license, passport or other form of identification ready and your ticket easily accessible. Go directly to your gate after check-in to be sure no changes in the gate or your flight have been made by the airline.
Going through airport security check stations can be slow, especially during peak travel times. Help yourself by packing light, avoid wearing or carrying metal items, be organized with your paperwork, and know which items are restricted for carry-on.
Most airlines allow a passenger one carry-on bag that can fit under the seat in front of you. Check with the airline you will be flying regarding its specific luggage policy, and know that as of 2009, many airlines are now charging extra fees check-in bags or luggage over 50 pounds.
You can book airline tickets by calling an airline or a travel agent directly, or you can book your own tickets on a discount website such as Orbitz.com, Expedia.com, Kayak.com, CheapFlights.com and Travelocity.com, to name a few.
Online travel booking websites require a credit card or debit card and an email address where they can send your confirmation.
Besides your boarding pass, you will need an acceptable form of photo identification to pass through the security check stations. The Transportation Security Administration has a list of acceptable forms of photo identification on its website, tsa.gov. Among the most common forms of acceptable IDs are driver's licenses, passports and military ID cards.
