For international layover flights booked on one airline, two hours is often recommended to make your connection. For international flights on different airlines, the connection time will need to be even greater as you may have to change terminals between the two flights.
How many hours do you need for international flights?
3 hoursWhen you're traveling outside of the United States, we suggest arriving at least 3 hours prior to your departure. You must be checked in at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure. Additionally, we recommend being at the gate and ready to board 45 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
Why does it take longer for international flights?
International flights are usually on larger planes, meaning there are more passengers all checking in for the flight. You have to allow time for that. Plus, most everyone will have check—in luggage, so that takes longer for check—in.
Why do they say 3 hours for international flights?
Why flying from US to Europe is faster?
Since the jet streams flow from west to east, they make one leg of the journey much faster (when flying with the stream) and one slower (against the stream). Imagine going downstream or upstream a river, or how it feels when you are cycling against the wind, as opposed to when you have it at your back.
What is the longest international flight you can take?
1. The World's Longest Flight: New York (JFK) to Singapore Changi (SIN) New York John F Kennedy Airport – Singapore Changi is currently the longest commercial flight it is possible to book. At 15,332km, this route has been at the top of the table since 2021, and takes an average of 18 hours and 40 minutes to complete.
Why do you need to arrive so early for international flights?
This is because international flights can have additional check-in requirements, like passport verification, that need to be completed before you receive your boarding pass. Further, international flights tend to begin their boarding process 15 to 30 minutes earlier than domestic flights due to the larger plane size.
Is 2 hours before an international flight OK?
Generally, for international flights, airlines recommend arriving at the airport at least three hours before the scheduled departure time. This allows sufficient time to check in, go through security, and complete any necessary immigration or customs procedures.