What happens at the airport when you arrive? I'm taking my first flight soon. What happens at security?

The first thing you need to do is check in for your flight and get a boarding pass. You can do this one of several ways. The easiest is to print it online via your airline's website. You can also print it at the computerized kiask near the ticketing counters.

The next step is to check in your luggage if you have it. There will be a counter for your specific airline that you will use to do this. You will need to show them your boarding pass so they tag the bag for the correct aircraft. Once this is done, proceed directly to the security line.

When you go through security, be sure to have your photo ID ready to show the TSA officer. Also try to have your bag organized in case of a search. You will need to have all liquid items in a plastic ziplock bag with no bottles bigger than three ounces. Check the TSA website for detailed security information regarding what you can and cannot put in your carry on.

Lastly, once you are through security, go to the gate listed on your boarding pass. Be sure to check the monitors to make sure your flight is leaving from the same gate as your pass states. Sometimes this information changes. Once you're at the gate, it's pretty simple - wait for your aircraft and board when asked by the attendant.

Sometimes flying for the first time can be scary and quite a hassle. If you come prepared with the latest guidelines and have your ID ready in the security line, you'll slide through like a pro. If you need more info, leave me a comment. I'm a first officer for a major airline so I know first hand what the hassles can be. Best of luck.

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by Fly Forever on May 1st, 2008 - answerbag.com