UK airports are expected to be especially busy during the May half-term break, and airlines including Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2 and TUI have shared their latest UK half-term flight guidance for passengers
Families planning to travel abroad in May should take note of the latest airport arrival guidance from airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, Jet2, and TUI.
Airports are expected to be extremely busy throughout the school holiday period, and with concerns about varying jet fuel prices, many passengers are keen to prepare themselves for possible delays, extended queues, and last-minute timetable alterations.
While the regulations have largely stayed consistent in recent months, certain airlines have particular stipulations for different passenger types or groups.
Ryanair
Ryanair recommends that passengers reach the airport a minimum of two hours prior to take-off to ensure sufficient time for check-in, luggage drop-off, and security procedures. Additionally, the airline states that passengers must be present at the boarding gate no later than 30 minutes before their scheduled departure, reports the Mirror.
Whether you’ve made your booking through an online travel agent or not, you’ll still be required to confirm your reservation at the airport, and arriving at least two hours beforehand is strongly advised.
EasyJet
Those travelling with easyJet are cautioned on the company’s website that airports tend to get particularly congested during school breaks, urging passengers to factor in additional time for traffic, railway delays, and queuing.
The carrier notes that bag drop facilities at most UK airports close 40 minutes ahead of departure, though certain airports and routes may have an earlier cut-off time of 60 minutes. For flights departing in the morning, twilight bag drop services are offered the previous evening.
Jet2
For Jet2 passengers, it’s recommended to reach the airport a minimum of two hours prior to your scheduled departure time, though earlier arrival is advisable as check-in desks typically open approximately two-and-a-half hours before take-off.
Jet2’s check-in facilities close 40 minutes ahead of departure. Passengers are encouraged to review the airline’s most recent travel information page at least 12 hours before their flight to stay informed about any delays or disruptions.
The carrier also provides a Twilight Check-in facility at certain UK airports, enabling passengers with morning departures to drop off their luggage the evening before.
TUI
TUI’s regular check-in begins at least 2.5 hours prior to short- and mid-haul departures, while for long-haul journeys passengers can check in 3.5 hours beforehand.
The operator emphasises that turning up earlier than these times won’t enable travellers to proceed through security any quicker, and that those with only hand luggage who’ve completed online check-in can head directly to security upon airport arrival.
For parties travelling together under one booking, TUI recommends that just one individual needs to visit the bag drop with everyone’s passports, visas, boarding passes, and baggage.
Across all carriers, standard guidance suggests keeping travel documentation readily available, verifying flight status online before departing for the airport, and anticipating extended queuing times during busy travel windows such as the May half-term break.
