If airports were not Already a hellish landscape, Tiktok has found a way to worsen them. Welcome to Airport Theory, a viral illusion that suggests that you can go to the airport 15 minutes before getting on board, waltzing safety and making your flight with time to waste. No stress, no waiting, just the energy of the pure main character.
Tiktok creators like Michael Dicostanzo (@ Michael.Dicostanzo) swear by him, documenting their dashes through high traffic centers laxAtlanta International Airport, and Post – Bowl in Super New Orleans. Some viewers are sold. Others call BS.
Tiktok contents
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“So, you had precheck, you did not check a bag and were at the nearest terminal? And, of course, the Internet is also strewn with unsuccessful attempts–videos of Desperate Tiktors who watch their flights take off without them, their regret tiles.
It is a funny fantasy, which explains why “airport theory“Has accumulated more than 400 million views on Tiktok. in 2024. And if you fly with a notorious bottleneck like JFK, Orlando International or Chicago O’Hare, it is closer to 40 minutes. Google is looking for “I missed my flight that I do”, I increased by 70% in the last month, according to Google Trends. It is not difficult to connect the points.
Here is your sad verification of reality: airlines always recommend arriving at least two hours before an internal flight, three for international. Sometimes this stamp looks exaggerated. But do you prefer to rush through the airport with your heart during the race or have a few minutes to find your door, take a bag of too expensive and scroll Tiktok while looking at other people missing their flights? It looks like a much better airport theory.
Airport hacks that actually work
The best way to cross the security of the unscathed airport is to move as you have done a hundred times before. A little planning, good equipment and water jumps on social networks will make you go from the sidewalk to the door with a minimum of stress.
BO Shen / Getty images
Time
- Travel off the point. According to cheapirTuesdays and Wednesdays are often less congested. The first flights between 5 and 8 in the morning and red eyes (after 21 hours) tend to have fewer passengers.
- Check the TSA waiting times in advance. The my tsa application (iOS,, Android) Provides real -time security line updates in the main airports.
Get the right applications
Smart Pack
Dress for efficiency
- Empty your pockets Before security. Store everything in your hand luggage instead of groping at the checkpoint.
- Keep metal jewelry, watches and belts in your bag until screening.
- Avoid boots or high tops. Slip-ons like Allbirds trees for $ 98 And Rothy’s driving moccasin for $ 189– We have delighted about them in the past – Make safety a breeze. If you do not plan to sprint by the airport, the Bearpaw Martis slippers ($ 70) are ultra-marital.
- Jump bulky outdoor clothes. Coats, hooded sweatshirts with large pockets and everything with excessive zippers slowed you down. If you have Precheck, you can usually keep your shoes, belt and light jacket.
Stay organized