Airport Theory: Risky Social Trend May Cost You More Than A Missed Flight

A new trend on TikTok is making waves across the internet. This new trend on TikTok is called “airport theory” and it suggests that travellers don’t need to arrive hours before their flight. Instead, they can show up just 15 minutes before departure and still make it onboard. The idea behind the trend is to avoid long waits at the airport and still catch the flight on time.

What Is Airport Theory? This New Trend Has Travelers Pushing Boundaries

Many TikTok users are now testing this risky theory and posting their results online. TikTok creator Michael DiCostanzo tried the trend at one of the busiest airports in the USA, Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. In his January 10 video, he reached his gate in just 14 minutes and 57 seconds. He had TSA PreCheck and no checked bags, which made the process faster. His video showed that, in some cases, it might be possible to make it on time even with such a short window.

However, not everyone has been as lucky. Another creator, Jenny Kurtz, shared her experience in a February 5 video where she appeared to miss her flight to Chicago while attempting the same trend. Her video served as a warning to others that things don’t always go smoothly.

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Travel advisor Nicole Campoy Jackson from Fora Travel told People that the trend is more trouble than it’s worth. “It only takes one stressful missed flight for you to realise this trend is pointlessly risky,” she said. She explained that even with TSA PreCheck, unexpected delays like long lines or technical issues could easily ruin the plan. “The easiest way to guarantee you'll eventually miss a flight is to rely on this 'theory’,” she added.

Jackson also shared her personal experience, saying she has cut it close before but still made her flights. However, she made one thing clear: “I have never once arrived early or on time and missed my flight.”

Most airlines advise passengers to arrive at the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before their flight. This helps avoid stress and allows time for check-in, security, and any surprises. While airport theory might be trending online, travel experts agree that showing up late is a gamble that isn’t worth the risk.