I have arrived at the airport 3 times on Saturdays (2 Sept, 1 May). All times were around 11:30. We were off the plane and out the door in less then an hour. Just remember to think for yourself and not like a sheep following the herd to the longest line.
Generally speaking - here are my tips for airport travel... - Try to sit near the front of the plane, not necessarily first class. You'll board earlier, have space for your carryon over your own head, and be the first off the plane. That has saved me many times when I had to run to another gate for a botched layover. - Keep your passport and ticket stub in your pocket, not in your carryon bag. Later, when you get your customs forms, you'll need that info. If it's in your bag, which is stowed above someone else's head, you'll have a hard time getting to it. - Fill out the forms as soon as you get them, not "in a little while." It's too easy to have a few drinks and forget about the forms until you start to land. At that point, you won't be allowed to get to your bags to find your passport and ticket stub, which you'll need because you didn't listen to me above - When in the airport, act like you know what you're doing, even if you don't. Walk swiftly, and assertively, without running anyone over. Other travelers will get out of your way, and people won't try to sell you anything. If you don't know where you're going, just keep walking until you see the sign. Don't stop and cause a logjam. I'm talking to you, Guy With 7 Suitcases! - If you have stowed baggage, get to the carousel, and then take turns with your party going to the bathroom, while one person waits for bags. Don't cut folks off, but if you get there first, it's fair. If you can stay 1 step ahead of 200 people on your flight, then you'll end up first in the customs line. That can be a huge timesaver, if someone on your flight decided it was a good idea to import something they shouldn't have. There's always someone. Basically, try to be organized before you start the descent, and it will pay off. You're not going to need to run, but if you can jump through each of the 20 hoops smoothly, then you're not creating an opportunity to get slowed down. Every time someone else has to dig for a ticket in their pocket, or needs to stop for directions, you'll stroll right past them. Not that you don't know how to use an airport, but hopefully my $0.02 will be helpful for someone out there. Cheers!
