Important Things to Know When Flying

Airports can be overwhelming—especially if you're dealing with connections, international travel, or unexpected delays. This guide covers what you need to know to navigate your flights smoothly from start to finish.

Download Your Airline’s Mobile App

Before You Travel: Download your airline’s mobile app to your phone. This is the best way to stay updated in real-time on flight delays, gate changes, and other travel alerts.

Use the six-digit confirmation number found in your travel documents to pull up your reservation. This will give you access to your boarding passes, baggage tracking, and check-in options. Most apps also allow you to rebook in case of a missed connection or cancellation.

Flight Information & Travel Day Tips

Navigating Airports: Airports display flight information on large screens throughout the terminals. Flights are listed alphabetically by destination city. Make sure to confirm your gate number and terminal (e.g., A30 means Terminal A, Gate 30). These can change at any time, so check again once you arrive.

Don't Wander Far: Even if your flight is delayed, do not stray far from your gate. Airlines can revert to the original departure time with minimal notice.

TSA PreCheck or Global Entry: If you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, add your Known Traveler Number (KTN) to your reservation at least 72 hours prior to departure. This ensures your benefits will be recognized by the airline.

Domestic Flight Connections

If you have a layover within the U.S., follow these steps:

• No Need to Collect Checked Bags: Your luggage will be automatically transferred to your final destination.

• Head to Your Gate Promptly: Check the airport monitors for gate information. Head straight to your gate before stopping to eat or use the restroom.

• Know Your Timing: Boarding typically begins 30–45 minutes before takeoff. For short layovers (less than 90 minutes), time is tight—don’t linger.
  

Connecting to an International Flight

If you're connecting to an international flight from a U.S. airport:

• Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time for check-in and security. We recommend at least 3 hours before departure.

• Bags Checked Through: At your departure airport, confirm with the airline that your baggage is checked all the way to your international destination.

• Security and Boarding: After checking in, go through TSA security and head directly to your domestic flight’s gate.

• At Your Connection Airport: Follow signs for International Connections. In most cases, you won’t need to collect your luggage or go through customs in the U.S.—that happens at your final international stop.
  

Returning to the U.S. from Abroad

Flying into the U.S. from an international destination? Here’s what to expect:

• Check-In Early: Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. Check your bags and get your boarding passes.

• Security: Standard security rules apply—remove liquids, laptops, and electronics as directed.

• Arriving in the U.S.:

  • You’ll enter through Customs and Border Protection at your first airport in the U.S.

  • You will need to collect your bags and go through customs—even if they were tagged to your final destination.

• Recheck Your Bags: After clearing customs, follow signs to recheck your luggage for your domestic flight. You’ll also need to go back through TSA security before heading to your connecting gate.
  

Navigating Travel Disruptions: Delays, Missed Connections, & Cancellations

Flight changes and cancellations do happen, and it’s important to know how to handle them:

• The Airline Is in Control: When there’s a delay or cancellation, you are at the mercy of the airline you’re booked with. Your travel advisor can assist as a resource, but only the airline can make changes to your flights in real time.

• Work Directly with Gate Agents: If you miss a connection or a flight is canceled, speak to a gate agent immediately. They have the ability to rebook you.

• Auto-Rebooking: Most airlines will automatically rebook you on the next available flight. Check your airline app or speak with a representative to confirm.

• Hotel Vouchers: If you’re stuck overnight due to a cancellation or long delay, ask the airline if you’re eligible for a hotel voucher. This is not guaranteed and is determined by the airline’s policies.

• Purchasing a New Ticket: If you choose to buy a new flight with a different airline, this is considered a personal decision. You are responsible for that new ticket, and the original airline is not obligated to reimburse you.

• Stay Updated via the App: The airline's app will typically notify you of changes before they’re even announced at the gate. This can give you a head start on rebooking or finding assistance.
  

Additional Pro Tips:

• Pack any medications, chargers, and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case your checked luggage is delayed.

• Use a credit card that includes travel protections when purchasing flights—it may offer trip interruption or delay coverage.

• Always have your airline’s customer service phone number saved or bookmarked, just in case lines at the gate are long.
  

With preparation and the right tools, even unexpected changes can be managed smoothly. Our team is always here as a resource, but knowing how to advocate for yourself at the airport will help you keep your trip on track.

Need help before your flight? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re here for you every step of the way.