We all know that the airport experience can sometimes be a pain in the—how best to put this—backside. However, a new viral trend has emerged that can be both exhilarating and risky.
But, frankly, although exciting it’s really not one to mess with.
It’s called the “airport theory” and was born on TikTok. It’s not complicated—you are challenged to arrive at the airport as little as 15 minutes before your flight leaves.
Sounds easy enough, right? You probably should complete online check-in and have only carry-on luggage to cut down the time going through security, and TSA Pre-Check is also advantageous. A little fun with no regrets.
Until you miss your flight. Then it’s not so whimsical anymore.
This challenge is “about whether or not you really need to arrive at the airport within a certain period of time to catch a flight,” Betsy Grunch, a neurosurgeon with 2.4 million TikTok followers, told CNN. “Is it really necessary to arrive the two to three hours beforehand as recommended to make your flight?”
That is a good point, and airlines are among the most rigid entities when following a schedule. If a flight is scheduled to leave at 2:46, it will leave at 2:46. Not a minute before that. And if you purchased your seat already, it will be there. The challenge certainly reduces the time spent at the airport.
Yet, airlines and airports frown on the practice. And rightfully so, as schedules are implemented for a reason.
Part of the challenge is its allure. It is both appealing and perilous. Anybody who has ever missed a flight knows of the problems that can ensue, including defeating the whole purpose in the first place by having to wait inside the airport for the next flight.
There’s something to be said for being early, and though airports are built these days to be more like shopping malls, the idea of being in an airport for a long wait for a flight is an anathema to some people.
But knowing that you arrived early, parked the car and went through security releases some of the stress associated with air travel.
In the end, it all comes down to how you’re built. Some people like to live on the edge. Some people prefer safety.
Again, this is not something to mess with. There are too many variables. An airport is like a giant jigsaw puzzle, and there’s a reason why it is suggested you arrive two hours before a domestic flight leaves.
There can be a sudden storm that throws everything off, an unexpected wait at security, or several other issues that could arise that throw a wrench into the Airport Theory.
Why take the chance? Waiting is part of flying. And if you are seeking exhilaration, we know a few good companies for skydiving.
