Airlines and airports are currently experiencing their busiest season, and things are going well across the aviation sector. Airline and airport CEOs are personally visiting staff to congratulate them for their efforts.
Unlike last year, the major operational setbacks of the busy season have largely been avoided this time. While the operations are running smoothly, it’s often passenger mistakes that end up disrupting the flow. These errors typically start from the passenger’s own home and follow them all the way to their destination. One misstep can trigger a domino effect of issues that not only ruin the passenger’s trip but also negatively impact airport and airline operations.
This week, we’re taking a look at the most common airport mistakes passengers make before their flights. Let’s explore what they are…
Not Downloading the Airport or Airline App
Airports and airlines provide vital flight information directly to your smartphone through their official apps. These apps notify passengers of gate changes, delays, cancellations, boarding times, and more. However, some travelers still head to the airport without downloading them — and the chaos begins.
As soon as they enter the terminal, they start asking endless questions:
“Where’s my check-in desk?”, “How do I find my airline?”, “Which gate is it?”, “What time does my flight leave?”
This not only delays them personally but also clogs up the system and stresses airport personnel.
Not Checking in Online
The other day, I saw a line stretching just for check-in and was shocked, especially since there were kiosks right there.
Unless you have a major issue that requires in-person help, just do your check-in online. Have your boarding pass sent to your phone via SMS or email. If you don’t have bags to check, you can skip the counter completely.
Even if you have baggage, you can use the kiosks to tag and drop it yourself; it takes less than 3 minutes.
Passengers who still head to the counters unnecessarily slow everything down and burden ground staff with repetitive questions.
Not Bringing Snacks
Airport food is notoriously overpriced, and in Türkiye, the prices can be outrageous.
Whether it’s something from a café or a sit-down restaurant, you’ll pay much more than usual.
That’s why you should always pack snacks in your carry-on, especially during busy seasons. Your flight could be delayed, you might get stuck in long lines, or even miss a connection.
Snacks can help you survive those waiting hours without spending a fortune.
Not Gaining Lounge Access
In crowded airports, lounges offer peace and convenience, if you can get in.
Recently, even lounges have been packed to the brim due to too many airline partnerships.
Still, many travelers see lounge access as a worthwhile investment.
Despite the high prices and occasional crowding, skipping lounge access can be a big mistake, especially during peak travel seasons.
Not Adding a Bright Tag to Your Luggage
You’re finally back from vacation, standing at baggage claim, exhausted.
If your bag is plain black or dark blue like hundreds of others, finding it can take forever.
Mistakenly grabbing someone else’s luggage is also common.
To avoid the hassle, simply add a bright tag or ribbon to your bag. It’ll save you time and frustration.
Safe travels!