Airports have never been synonymous with ease. They often bring to mind long queues, tedious waiting hours, and disoriented travellers causing chaos. To navigate these inconveniences, many TikTokers and influencers are constantly coming up with new creative ways to improve the travel experience. From tips on avoiding the middle seat on a flight to the “check-in chicken,” new trends continuously emerge, inviting travellers to test them out.
Recently, a new trend called the ‘Airport Theory’ has been gaining traction while disrupting conventional travel even more.
What is actually the Airport Theory?
The Airport Theory challenges travellers to arrive 15 minutes or less before their departure time. It has become increasingly widespread in recent weeks, with online users suggesting that it reduces wasted time at the airport. Supporters argue that it eliminates unnecessary waiting and makes travel more efficient.
However, the practicality of the theory is questionable, as some participants have reported missing their flights. For example, @jenny_kurtzz documenter her attempt, arriving at the gate only to find out it had already been closed – causing her to miss her flights. Her experiences along with similar cases, have raised concerns about the feasibility of the “theory”, given strict airline boarding policies and security procedures.
@jenny_kurtzz i would not recommend 😩😭✈️ #airporttheory #airport #flying #fyp #lifehack #tipsandtricks ♬ son original – tswiftmusic
Can the Airport Theory be mastered?
Whether someone can squeeze in all airport procedures within just 15 minutes depends on several factors, such as:
- The size of the airport (major hubs such as Amsterdam Schiphol or Heathrow Airport in the UK tend to have longer security queues)
- The season (holiday periods mean longer queues)
- The day of the week (weekends are usually busier)
Additionally, if a traveller has a checked-in bag, they can easily spend more than 15 minutes at the check-in counter. Of course, skipping the security line could help expedite the process, but something as simple as a forgotten phone or a returned bag for a double-check can slow anyone down.
@michael.dicostanzo Can Airport Theory survive the world’s BUSIEST airport?? 👀✈️🤔 #airportheory #atlantaairport #challenge ♬ original sound – Michael DiCostanzo
“Even despite airport arrival times being suggested figures, they aim to give travellers ample time to get a bag checked (if needed), navigate through security and then find their gates. Some airports require a healthy 15-to-20-minute walk or tram ride just to get to the correct terminal area,” said Katy Nastro, travel expert at the Going travel app.
Should I try the Airport Theory?
The answer to this question depends on a traveller’s willingness to risk missing their flight. The general rule is to arrive at the airport two hours in advance for domestic flights and three hours before international ones.
Nevertheless, missing a flight due to the Airport Theory comes with consequences. Some airlines offer a fallback, allowing passengers to rebook onto the next available flight if multiple flights operate on the same day. However, if the next flight is the following day or even later, the journey can become significantly longer. By attempting to cut it close on the departure date, the Airport Theory can end up costing not only more time but also money in rebooking fees, hotel stays, or last-minute tickets.
