Airports are stressful places, even for some of us who are used to flying. Instead of worrying and missing your own flight, prepare yourself with some complete information to navigate through the airport and board the plane.
Step
Part 1 of 2: Exploring the Airport
Step 1. Print out your flight pass and check your luggage
While many Airlines allow you to register and print your flight pass online (if you didn't check your luggage), you can also choose to do it yourself at the airport. Enter the airport in the section where your Airline is located, and find their counter. When you get to the reception, just provide your name and ID, and they will automatically print your pass and ask for your belongings.
- If you are going to have multiple transit flights, ask the clerk to print out your entire flight pass. Some staff will do this automatically, but it's best if you ask first.
- Your carry-on should not exceed 23 kg, which costs around $25 (Rp 320,000) initially. This varies by Airline, so try checking your needs online.
- If you don't want to worry about luggage, you are allowed to bring two items that you can carry for free: one can be stored under the seat in front of you and the other can be stored in the basket under your seat. Ask the clerk if your suitcase is suitable for carrying.
- If you print your flight pass online and don't check in your luggage, you can skip the stop at the airline counter.
Step 2. Go to the inspection section
If you've got your flight pass and your suitcase is ready, you can go to the check-in section. Prepare your flight pass and identification card, such as your driver's license or passport (if you are abroad, you must prepare your passport). A TSA (Transportation Security Administration) officer will check your flight pass and ID, after that you will pass a security check. All belongings must be placed in the basket and passed through the X-ray beam.
- Airport security is very tight, but they also inform this. Check for signs of what to do to pass security checks, ask someone if you're still not sure.
- Liquids and portable computers must be added to a separate basket from other items.
- Some security checkpoints require you to take off your shoes and jacket; check for signs if your local airport does the same.
- A TSA officer will guide you through the process should anything happen to your luggage or to you.
Step 3. Find the gateway/terminal
Repack your things and put your shoes back on so you can wait at the right terminal! Double-check the flight pass for your terminal (usually a letter) and your gate (a number). There should be lots of signs guiding you to this area, but if you can't find one, ask the staff there.
If your flight pass does not have a terminal, look for a monitor with flight schedules and check through it
Step 4. Relax and wait for your plane
It's a good idea to arrive at the airport in advance so that you have time before leaving, if needed at any time. Go to the bathroom, find something to eat, or take a few minutes to use the airport wifi. Boarding an airplane is usually done half an hour before departure, so you have plenty of time to spend.
- Be careful not to get too far from your gate so you don't miss important information if your plane leaves early.
- If you want, you can ask the flight attendant at the counter to change your seat. This is your only chance to get a different seat or change seats to business class or first class.
Part 2 of 2: Boarding the Plane
Step 1. Wait for departure information
About half an hour before takeoff, flight attendants will announce departure. Departures are made in sections, either in groups (designed by letter) or by seat. Check your flight pass to see if you are in the group, and if not, wait for your row or seat to be called.
- First class will always board first, followed by business class and people with physical disabilities or infants.
- While this is not always the case, it is more advantageous to be at the front of the line so that you are free to put your luggage in the cabin baggage. If cabin baggage is full, your luggage can be rechecked.
Step 2. Check your flight pass
After waiting in line to depart, there will be a flight attendant at the entrance checking your flight pass. For international flights, you must present your passport again. Keep track of your flight pass after it's checked, as you may be checked again later by another flight attendant on the plane.
Step 3. Get on the plane
There's usually another line after the first check, so you'll have to wait some more before getting on the plane. Check your seat to make sure you're not mistaken, and remember your row number. If you are on a large plane, ask the flight attendants to find your seat.
Step 4. Save the things you brought with you
When you know your seat location, place the smaller bag in your seat and see if there is free space for the larger item in the carry-on baggage. This is not something easy, so you may need the help of a flight attendant to do it. When you are finally able to sit down, place a smaller bag under the seat in front of you.
Step 5. Relax
Everything's in order! Now is the time for you to sit comfortably and relax before arriving at your destination. During the flight you will be offered free drinks and sometimes food too, depending on how far your flight is. If needed, there are bathrooms at the front and back of the plane. Other questions can be asked of the flight attendants.
