How early should you arrive at Arlanda before a flight?
Swedavia's recommended arrival times by type of flight, and what changes them.
Short answer
Swedavia recommends arriving at Arlanda two to two and a half hours before a flight within Europe, and longer for flights outside Europe. For domestic flights the recommendation is 90 minutes, and for flights outside Europe it is three to three and a half hours. Your airline decides what applies to your flight.
Why
- According to Swedavia, the general recommendation is 1.5 hours before a domestic flight, 2 to 2.5 hours within Europe and 3 to 3.5 hours outside Europe.
- Swedavia says the right time depends on whether you check baggage, use self-service kiosks or a staffed desk, need documents checked, or must pass border control.
- Swedavia says mornings are generally busier at Arlanda and that passengers are always responsible for checking with their airline what applies to their flight.
Details
Swedavia's website has a tool that gives a recommended arrival time for your specific departure. If you fly outside the Schengen area, you also pass border control, as described in what the Entry/Exit System means for travel to Sweden. For ways to get to the airport, see Arlanda and its alternatives.
Tip
Check your airline's own deadlines as well: SAS, for example, closes check-in and bag drop 45 minutes before departure on flights within Scandinavia and Europe.
What may differ
Airlines set their own rules, and SAS says to allow extra time in busy periods such as school breaks, summer and public holidays. Charter flights may follow different rules.
Common misconception
Arriving just before the airline's check-in deadline is enough.
What actually happens
SAS closes check-in and bag drop 45 minutes before departure on Scandinavian and European flights, but Swedavia recommends two to two and a half hours within Europe and says the right time depends on baggage, check-in method and time of day.
People also ask
- How early should I be at Arlanda Airport?
- When should I arrive at Arlanda for a domestic flight?
- How long before departure should I be at the airport in Sweden?
Sources
- Swedavia: When should I be at the airportChecked at:
- Swedavia: When should I be at the airport (English page)Checked at:
- SAS: Check-in and boarding deadlinesChecked at:
- SAS: When do I need to be at the airportChecked at:
This answer is for reference only. Rules can change, so check Swedavia before you travel.
Arlanda and alternativesRelated questions
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Do you get compensation for a delayed Snälltåget train?
Yes, Snälltåget pays 25% of the ticket price if you arrive 60 to 119 minutes late and 50% if you arrive 120 minutes or more late.
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Where does Viking Line leave from in Stockholm?
Viking Line ferries leave from the Stadsgården terminal in Stockholm, at Tegelvikshamn, SE-11630 Stockholm, according to Ports of Stockholm and Viking Line.
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What is the 'försalong' on Destination Gotland?
On Destination Gotland, the försalong is a lounge with reclining seats where films are shown on monitors during the crossing.
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Is the Arlanda Express included in an SAS ticket?
Arlanda Express sells its own train tickets, and its price list, its ticket terms and Swedavia's train page mention no SAS or other airline ticket that includes the ride.