How Early Should I Arrive at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa?
Personalized arrival time recommendations for Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (BCU) based on current conditions
Recommended Arrival Times at BCU
Based on estimated wait times
Domestic Flights at BCU
International Flights at BCU
Current Wait Times at BCU
What's Included in These Times
Domestic Flight (2 hours)
- Check-in & bag drop (if needed): 15-20 min
- Security screening: 28 min avg
- Walk to gate: 10-15 min
- Buffer for delays: 20-30 min
International Flight (3 hours)
- Check-in & bag drop: 20-30 min
- Security screening: 28 min avg
- Passport control: 8 min avg
- Walk to gate: 15-20 min
- Buffer for delays: 30-45 min
Tips for BCU
- Add 30 minutes if you're checking bags
- Add 30-60 minutes during holidays and peak travel seasons
- Mobile check-in 24 hours before saves time at the airport
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Use Arrival CalculatorFrequently Asked Questions
How early should I arrive at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport for a domestic flight?
For domestic flights at BCU, arrive 2 hours before departure. During peak hours (5-8 AM, 4-7 PM), arrive 2 hours 30 minutes early. With expedited screening, 1 hour 30 minutes is usually sufficient.
How early should I arrive at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport for an international flight?
For international flights at BCU, arrive 3 hours before departure. This includes time for check-in, security, and passport control. During peak periods, arrive 3 hours 30 minutes early.
Is 2 hours enough time at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport?
2 hours is generally sufficient for domestic flights at BCU during normal hours. Add 30 minutes if checking bags, and consider arriving earlier during peak travel periods or holidays.
What are the busiest times at Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport?
The busiest times at BCU are typically 5-8 AM and 4-7 PM on weekdays. The busiest months are Jul, Aug, Dec. Arriving earlier during these periods is recommended.