Travelers Are Testing the ‘Airport Theory.’ Some Are Regretting It
In the short wait at the airport, have you missed an increased chance worth a try?
Some travelers are based on the “airport theory” trend circulating on social media, even if many people missed their trip, although experts suggest it is not worth the risk. The trends seen widely on Tiktok essentially involve a bet where you can gamble with safe time and other factors and finally get to the door in time.
Instead of the recommended multi-hour mat, the video on Tiktok shows people’s goal is to be close to 15 minutes. One Tiktok user reported success, although randomly selected for additional screening. “The airport theory is true, what can I say?” Lexi Smith said, who had time to stop for M&M.
“Unfortunately, I will never feel cold,” wrote another traveler’s commentator on Tiktok post. “Why should I waste my precious time sitting at the airport?” wrote another one.
‘I don’t recommend’
Should you follow suit? “Arriving at the airport 15 minutes before the flight departure time will most likely start the trip with the wrong foot,” said Transportation Safety Administration spokesman Dan Velez. “The TSA, as well as most airports, recommends passengers arrive at the airport two hours before the flight to make sure they have enough time to handle all the necessary steps before boarding.”
These steps – include checking in, checking bags and passing through safety lines, as well as possible personal necessities such as refilling water bottles, snatching up food, and even figuring out where to go, no matter what they are in a hurry.
Times of day, airport size and distance from security to door are also OK. And there is no guarantee that airport workers or other travelers will be able or inclined to help you drive quickly. Anika Robertson, assistant director of communications and media affairs at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, recommends checking the airport’s website for safe waiting times.
Some travelers prefer rushing. There are even debates about clarity or services such as clarity TSA Precheck Invalidate the challenge. Tiktok user Michael Dicostanzo, who documented his experience testing the theory at various airports, said that in Atlanta, he had TSA Precheck and had no check bags, and he was less than 15 minutes from door to door.
Jenny Kurtz recorded her failed attempts to take her into the 5 a.m. flight she missed, and it was not lucky. “I don’t recommend it,” she said.