kenav

We're taking American Airilines, going to CDG from JFK in a couple of weeks, and I thought we may have to get there 3 hours before flight time. This is what we were told when we went to Budapest earlier this year. (Although, on the return trip, flying from CDG to JFK, they suggest 3hours!)

However, when I look at the AA site, they suggest "only" 2 hours. Yay!

Anybody ever get there earlier than they suggest and if so, why?

J62

I routinely show up at AA JFK <60min for domestic flight (no bags) and ~90min international. You can use kiosk checkin (even scan your passport).

This was before they moved all the Caribbean routes to the new terminal. Since then I have not flown international, but the new Terminal 8 is much busier than it was just a few mo ago.

2hrs is plenty of time as it's an efficient terminal. Use the self service kiosks if you can and you'll be at your gate 90min before departure.

AAFrequentFlyer

I get to airports about an hour before scheduled flight time, international or domestic. Maybe 1.5 hour if I'm checking a bag.

The 2 or 3 hours is a "suggested" time, it's not a rule.

Most of the legacy airlines will cut off check in (int or dom) at ~1 hour with bags, 45 minutes without bags. As long as you are at the check in desk before the cutoff time you're fine.

The difference for me is that I get to check in with the F class desk regardless what class of service I'm flying. As long as you feel comfortable with checking in at 1 hour before, the airline will allow it, just remember, you have to be <b>checked in</b> an hour before, not standing in line about 5 deep...(being at the airport on time doesn't cut it, checked in does)

kenav

J62 - Question - You say you use the kiosk for check-in, even internationally. Do you have only a carry-on bag or can you do this with a bag that needs to be checked? I don't see how you can check-in using a kiosk if you have to check-in your bags. Am I wrong?

AAFrequentFlyer

You will be asked during the check in process if you have bags. If you do, then it will ask how many and then it will print the bag tags that only an agent can retrieve. There will be a kiosk dedicated agent helping passengers with checked luggage. S/he will retrieve the printed tags, attach the tags and check your bag(s). No worries.

J62

exactly as AAFF describes - with bags at kiosk.

2hrs is plenty of time.

FYI, On more than one occasion I've cut it very close at AA JFK and pleaded (not demanded) for help from ground staff. They have helped me go right to the front of the line for checkin, bypass the security line w/ escort. They've radioed to the gate that I was on my way. (with no guarantees but gate agents were waiting). Many complain about AA customer service, but I'm a big fan. Always nice to me, especially if I smile and am nice in return.

I've learned to give myself more slack for an earlier arrival, but traffic en-route can be very variable, especially if there is an accident on the VanWyck or Hutch.

kenav

Thanks.

kenav

Oh - How do you get your boarding pass? Is it printed out at the kiosk?

mjz_kc

Yes, the boarding pass is printed out at the kiosk. You can also print a receit for your intinerary, change your seat, enter an AAdvantage number, etc. These kiosks are great and have made travel much more efficient.