Pay Attention to Boarding Time for Flights! How Many Minutes Before Departure Should You Pass Through Security and the Boarding Gate?
When flying, you may wonder: “How many hours before I should arrive at the airport?”, “What’s the security checkpoint cutoff?”, or “Is the boarding time the same as the departure time?”—there are many points of concern.
This article explains the recommended arrival time at the airport for both domestic and international flights, as well as the timing for passing through security and the boarding gate. Keep in mind potential risks like transportation delays and aim for a smooth boarding experience by allowing extra time.
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Pay Attention to Boarding Time for Flights! How Many Minutes Before Departure Should You Pass Through Security and the Boarding Gate?
Caution! Departure Time = The Time the Plane Starts Moving
When booking a flight, you might choose based on the departure time, thinking “I can make it by then!” But be careful—departure time does not mean the time you can still board the plane.
The departure time refers to when the aircraft begins moving toward takeoff. To board the plane, you must arrive at the boarding gate before that—by the boarding time.
If you're late for the boarding time, there's a high chance you won’t be allowed to board, even if you’ve already checked in. To be safe, head to the gate early and wait in front of it.
[Domestic Flights] Luggage Drop-off, Security Check, and Boarding Gate Cut-off Times
For domestic flights, it’s safest to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour before departure time.
[Domestic Flights] Airline-specific Cut-off Times (As of January 2025)
Airlines Luggage storage Security Check Boarding gate
Japan Airlines (JAL) 30 minutes ago 20 minutes ago 10 minutes ago
All Nippon Airways (ANA) 20 minutes ago 10 minutes ago
Skymark Airlines 20 minutes ago 15 minutes ago
Solaseed Air 30 minutes ago 20 minutes ago 10 minutes ago
AIRDO 30 minutes ago 20 minutes ago 10 minutes ago
Peach 30 minutes ago 25 minutes ago 20 minutes ago
Star Flyer 20 minutes ago 10 minutes ago
Here is a summary of the security checkpoint and boarding gate cut-off times for major domestic airlines. While there are slight differences between airlines, the general rule is:
Security Checkpoint: Until 20 minutes before departure time
Boarding Gate: Until 10 minutes before departure time
Even if you’re at the airport, you won’t be allowed to board if you miss the cut-off time set by the airline. Lines for luggage drop-off and security may be long, so it’s recommended to complete these procedures early.
[International Flights] Luggage Drop-off and Boarding Gate Cut-off Times
For international flights, procedures take longer, so plan to arrive at the airport 2 to 3 hours before departure. This varies depending on the airline and destination, but especially during busy times or peak seasons, arriving early gives peace of mind.
[International Flights] Airline-specific Cut-off Times (As of January 2025)
Airlines Check-in and baggage drop Boarding gate
Japan Airlines (JAL) 1 hour ago 30 minutes ago
All Nippon Airways (ANA) 1 hour ago 30 minutes ago
Peach 50 minutes ago 30 minutes ago
Cut-off times vary greatly depending on the airport and airline. To make sure you can board your reserved flight, be sure to check this in advance—preferably the day before.
◆ Security Checkpoint
Most airports recommend passing through security at least 1 hour before departure. For international flights, liquid carry-on restrictions are stricter, so preparing in advance will help you pass through smoothly.
◆ Immigration (Passport Control)
You will go through immigration via automated gates or staffed counters. Depending on congestion, this can take time, so it's best to pass through early.
◆ Moving to the Boarding Gate
After passing through security and immigration into the restricted area, re-confirm the boarding gate’s cut-off time. In large airports, the gate may be far, so it’s common to wait near the gate 30–40 minutes before departure. Until then, enjoy shopping at duty-free stores or relaxing at lounges or cafés.
