Planning your next big adventure? If that includes hopping on a plane to an English-speaking country (or even most international destinations), knowing these important airport terms will ensure your trip is smooth sailing—er, flying! 😉 

⏰ Time to check in

You can check in for most flights either online—through the airline’s webpage or app—or in person at the airport. Online check-in usually opens 24 to 48 hours before departure, while airport check-in typically begins 2 to 4 hours before your flight. Both close around 30-60 minutes before take-off, so be sure to check your airline’s guidelines in advance.

When you arrive at the airport, make sure to go to the correct terminal—that’s the building within the airport from which your flight departs. If you're completing check-in in person, present your passport or potentially another form of identification (also known as ID) to an airline staff member. You'll then receive a paper boarding pass. Make sure to keep this slip of paper safe—it is your ticket onto the plane, and you'll need it to get through security.

As part of check-in, you will also give your checked luggage to the airline staff. These are the suitcases that will be stowed in a separate area of the plane. You will collect these bags once you've arrived at your destination, or—if you're flying to the U.S.—in the airport where you first land in the U.S. (even if you have a connecting flight to another airport!).

👟 Shoes off, please

Once you have checked in and received your boarding pass, you will need to go through security. If your flight is in the United States, you will likely need to take off your shoes as part of the screening process. Also, keep in mind that you can only bring limited amounts of liquids through security in your carry-on bag. Usually, you’re only allowed to bring 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) in one quart-sized (or 1 liter) clear, resealable bag. Be sure to check the most current rules before heading to the airport.

⏳ And now you wait 

Once you’ve gone through security, it is time to head to your gate. You’ll find your flight’s gate number on your boarding pass, but be sure to also check the airport monitors, as gate assignments can change. The gate number will tell you exactly where you will board, or get on your flight.

Be sure to listen for boarding announcement letting you know when it’s time to board. Some airlines give priority boarding to the elderly, people in the military, families with young children, and other groups, and then groups are called individually. You'll see your group identified with a number or letter on your boarding pass (Group A, Group 4, etc). Pay attention to these announcements so you know when it’s your turn to board.

🛫 In the air

Once you get on the airplane, you’ll store your luggage in the appropriate place. Carry-on suitcases go in the overhead bins above your seat, while smaller bags—like backpacks or purses—can be placed under the seat in front of you. Then you’ll fasten your seatbelt and get ready for take-off! While most flights are smooth, it’s normal to experience some turbulence, sometimes called rough air, along the way. Remember to always follow the flight attendants' directions carefully. They’re not just there to distribute snacks and drinks. Their most important job is keeping you safe!

🛄 You have arrived

Congratulations! You’ve made it to your destination. Even though your flight has landed and you’re off the plane, if you have checked luggage, you still have one more task: Go to the baggage claim to pick up your suitcases from the baggage carousel.

Once you have your bags, you can take the bus or grab a taxi to your hotel. Whether your plan is to relax by the pool or go visit the top sites, we hope you have a great trip!

👋 Safe travels

Now you know all the English-language vocabulary you need to travel on an airplane with confidence. Happy flying! ✈️