It's normal to feel apprehensive before flying. Besides the journey on board the aircraft, the steps leading up to takeoff can seem complex, especially if it's your first time. However, navigating the airport procedures isn't that difficult. To help you experience this with complete peace of mind, let's explore together how to take a plane, from the moment of booking until you're settled in your seat. Here's a guide for a successful flight.
Precautions to Take When Preparing for a Flight
It all begins with booking your plane ticket. To find the most affordable price, you can use a flight comparison website and get a wide range of options based on your destination and travel dates. Faced with different airline offers, you need to study the prices, but also other criteria, so you don't end up with additional fees to pay once you're there.
After entering your personal details and making the payment, you'll receive your booking confirmation by email, along with all the necessary information.
Depending on the airline's procedures, you can check in online in advance, either by paying a fee or for free, 48 hours before your flight. This step is generally not mandatory, but it saves time by allowing you to directly obtain your boarding pass to print. It's also a way to avoid overbooking.
Before heading to the airport, you need to pack your bags. There are a few points to be particularly mindful of:
- The identification documents required for air travel can vary depending on the destination (ID card, passport, visa, residence permit...).
- The size, weight, and dimensions are regulated by airlines; they don't all use the same standards.
- Certain items are prohibited for security reasons, while others are allowed in carry-on baggage under specific conditions and/or only in checked baggage.
Navigating the Airport Upon Arrival
With your luggage and flight documents, it's finally time to head to the airport. To smoothly get through the steps that still separate you from your seat, you need to arrive sufficiently in advance. On average, 1 to 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and up to 3 hours in advance for a long-haul flight.
Good to know: some airports have more than one terminal, so it's essential to know in advance which one your flight will depart from.
Airports generally have a similar layout, with:
- Departure halls,
- Arrival halls,
- Check-in counters,
- Security checkpoints,
- Boarding gates.
You need to go to the check-in counter corresponding to your flight, following the signs displayed on the information screens.
Going Through Check-in: The Registration Step
If you don't have any checked baggage and you've already printed your boarding pass, you can skip this step.
However, if you need to collect your boarding pass and check in your luggage, reporting to the check-in counter is essential. A queue can form at this first point, as passengers on your flight, as well as those traveling to other destinations, also go through this process. Use this time to prepare your plane ticket or reservation number and your identification documents.
The agent will proceed with the check-in and issue your boarding pass. This is also where you'll hand over your checked baggage. Some checks will be performed, particularly regarding their weight and dimensions. If they exceed the standards set by the airline, you'll have to pay additional fees.
Good to know: you are allowed to bring one carry-on bag and a handbag or purse with you on the plane. Again, refer to the authorized weight and size limits.
Passing Through Security Checks
Depending on the airport's size, the wait can be longer or shorter.
The security check proceeds as follows:
- You present your flight documents;
-You hand over your carry-on baggage to the security agent for X-ray scanning, having taken care to set aside electronic devices (laptops, tablets, cameras...) and liquids (allowed in containers of less than 100 ml placed in a clear bag);
- You place all metallic items that might trigger the metal detector into the plastic bins provided: belts, watches, bracelets, rings, necklaces, keys...;
- The security agent may also ask you to remove your jacket, scarf, and shoes;
- You then pass through the security scanner: if it beeps, you will be subject to a pat-down search;
- Finally, you collect all your belongings before heading to the boarding gate.
Finding Your Boarding Gate
Refer to your boarding pass. The terminal is indicated by a letter and the gate by a number.
This information is also found on the departure boards. If in doubt, don't hesitate to ask airport staff for confirmation.
While waiting near the boarding gate, you can enjoy a hot drink or browse a duty-free shop. But be careful not to wander too far and stay attentive to announcements.
Boarding typically begins about 30 minutes before departure. It is announced over the loudspeakers and starts with first class, business class, and priority passengers (disabled individuals). Then, passengers are called by seat rows.
You will need to present your flight documents again, then follow other passengers down the jet bridge before arriving on the tarmac. Once on board, you'll just need to find your seat, stow your luggage, and follow the flight attendant's instructions until takeoff.