For millions of people it is the first vacation after the Corona crisis. But instead of a dream trip, it could turn into a big nightmare in the summer months. Airlines, security companies and airports are struggling with staff shortages. Summer chaos looms. FOCUS Online says when it will be critical in your state and how much time you have to plan at the airport.
If the flight takes place at all, there are unfortunately extremely long waiting times at the airport.
Passengers have to go through several processes before they can sit on the plane. But here the staff is missing. Airports, airlines and security companies laid off employees during the Corona crisis.
But how do I know how long to plan? Every airport provides information about the current occupancy and the applicable waiting time on the homepage.
Travelers should also check the airline’s website. The waiting times are given there under “My Check-In”. You may need to log in with your customer number, date of birth or email accordingly.
Allow at least three to four hours for domestic flights, four hours for EU trips and six hours for flights outside of Europe. On the airport website you will find information about the current occupancy and waiting times.
The earlier you are at the airport, the better it is.
Take the taxi, keep the receipt and make a note of the time as well. Gather evidence that you were there on time.
The start of the summer holidays in the federal states is decisive. If the holiday starts on a Monday, the airport will be crowded by Friday afternoon. If you travel on Saturdays, you have to expect extremely long waiting times.
prepare trip
Be at the airport on time. Plan on longer waiting times and long queues. Note that you have to go through three processes:
Due to the location, seats should be booked in advance – also for a fee.
If the airline offers services such as “Priority Package”, “Fast Check-In” or “Priority Check-In”, you should definitely book these in the high season months of June, July and August. Faster check-in means you can go to designated business or priority check-in counters. It is much faster there than at the economy counter, for example.
Use the so-called evening before or online check-in services via the app or the homepage of the airlines. You can check in digitally at least 24 hours before departure. You can then drop off your luggage at the airport using the drop-off principle. The waiting times are much shorter here. Look for signs such as “Baggage Drop-off” or “Express Drop-Off” found near check-in desks.
Danger! If you have not checked in in advance, you will not be able to use these services.
You should mark your suitcase with ribbon, stickers or luggage straps. Also write your name, current phone number and email address on the luggage tag. This helps to find you quickly if you lose it.
Find out in good time about the applicable entry regulations due to the Corona crisis. Ask yourself the following questions: Do I need a vaccination card? A test? Until when is the proof of recovery valid? The “Re-Open EU” app provides the answers. You can download this from CHIP.de.
Keep the relevant documents with your ID card and printed ticket ready to hand in your hand luggage or handbag.
Beim Check-In
At the security check
At boarding
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