How,long do I really need to sit in the airport for?

[Tinkie Winkie]

I am off to Dublin tomorrow, at midday from Heathrow, and have just noticed on the aer lingus website that for flights within Europe, it is suggested that passengers get there 2 and a half hours before the departure time. In my poor befuddled head I thought I only had to rock up an hour in advance! I booked a midday slot because I thought I could get up at a normal time, bearing in mind I'll prbs need an hour and a half to get to the airport.

What kind of gap does everyone else leave before domestic flights?

[????]

I fly on Aer Lingus to Dublin weekly and never ever get there two and a half hours before and I check in at the desk not online and I often go early in the morning when it's busier! I'd give it a bit more than an hour at Heathrow though.

[????]

Next time try and go Air France from City far more convenient

[Tinkie Winkie]

Thanks quids. My ideal would be to go from garrick, but I cannot stomach Ryanair. Also, airframce seems v expensive. By Garrick, I mean of course gatwick.

[Jeremy]

The airlines always suggest arriving far too early. 1h30 is easily long enough for euro flights, 1hr should be fine if you have no luggage and check in online. We usually leave 2hrs for long haul, but even that is overkill to be honest.

[????]

Tinkie Aer Lingus go from Gatwick too

[????]

I get AF for ?65 for the 7am flight at the mo. getting back on Thursday is 30? (was 25 until the tax went up!). Give us a pm if you go again I know the optimum times to book, best way into Dublin etc if you need them

[Jackwil80]

1-1.5Hrs should be enough. read a book or use the internet. You travelling alone? Travelling with a companion feels like a blessing at times likes this:)

[zeban]

You seriously don't need that long. My Mum drives me mad about this, constantly badgering me to get to the airport at least 2 and a half hours early. I just ignore her of course! 1- 1 and a half is more than enough. I give myself that for long haul flights and I've never missed a plane, so far!

[Tinkie Winkie]

Thanks all. Was just thinking earlier on, that it used to be 2 hours before flights to Australia, so was really head boggled over the suggestion of a 2 and a half hou bore-fest for a one hour flight.

Quids - thank you so much!

[woodrot]

yes

[Loz]

I get the feeling Australia is not the place for you, woodster. All that sunshine, laid back lifestyle and relaxation might run the risk of loosening that enormous plum stuck up your backside.