For Those Flying Out for the First Time

written on October 20th, 2015 by Rafia Abubakar

It is possible that many avid readers of travel blogs are seasoned travelers in their own right. But I would not put it past me if we have a few travel enthusiasts who are just beginning their journey.

I remember being excited and intimidated the first time travelling without a chaperone to guide me. The result of which was me getting in the wrong plane! Fortunately I was able to get out and ride the correct one in time. So for the nervous first time solo fliers, I feel you.

The following step by step guide was originally written for a loved one who was going to go through the process of boarding a plane in Cebu alone and for the first time. Before him, there was also the case of another friend asking for my guidance – this I did through a series of text messaging until I knew he was on board the plane.

Please note that specific procedures may change over time, but overall, this should help first timers.

Pre-Departure (Mactan-Cebu International Airport)

1. That point where your well-wishers and family can’t go beyond, Be sure to have your ticket print out and an ID. (There was a short run not long ago when they allowed if you showed the e-ticket saved on your device. But they seemed to have scratched that out and insist on asking for a printout.)

2. First Security check – After you go through the barricade / door, you have to submit to the first security check. All baggage and carry-on goes into the x-ray machine. Have your wallet and phone inside the bag so you won’t have to put it on a separate tray (lots of people lose things that way!). You would also have to remove your belt for this as well (you can put the belt in a tray they provide, or to be fast you can put it in your bag as well). Oh and loose change and keys will also trigger the sensors. Just think Wolverine and put everything metal away.

3. Check-In counter – If there’s no problem at the security check (remember to check trays if you left anything!), look for your airline counter and check the flight numbers for your flight. Line up there. When it’s your turn, present your ticket and ID. You will get your boarding pass (with your seat #). Make sure to take note of the Gate #. That’s where you are to wait for your plane.

(Alternatively, most airlines allow you to check yourself in. Either through web/online check-in or through self-check-in kiosks. In which case, those with check-in baggage can go directly to the Baggage Drop counter)

4. Second Security Check – Just after the check-in counter, you go through the next security check. Same procedure as the first one – sometimes they will ask you to remove your shoes (really depends if your shoes are triggering anything). Also you won’t be able to bring any liquid / water from outside at this point. There will be food stalls on the other side so don’t worry about not eating or drinking. 

5. Waiting Lounges / Gates – This is where you can sit and wait before boarding. I usually have coffee break and donuts here if I still have time. You can also look for your gate # and check your flight status on the board (the lighting board thingy). You can see if check-in is open, closed or if your flight is ready for boarding.

Departure

6. Boarding time – Usually boarding time is 15 minutes before actual flight time. Unless it’s delayed, I made it a habit to listen to announcements. Be sure to have your boarding pass now. Generally, you won’t need your ticket and ID at this point, but keep them handy just in case.

7. Flying time – Just follow the crowd when your flight is ready for boarding. Once on the plane, look for your seat number. I usually stow my hand carry bags in the space below the seat in front of me instead of the overhead bins (coz I have a hard time retrieving them later). Unless your duffel bag is big, I think it will fit just fine underneath. Now you can sit back relax and you can even sleep.

Arrival at Destination Airport

8. Arrival – Upon landing, make sure you check your seat over, under and even the overhead bin if you left anything there. Follow the crowd again. If you’ve checked-in baggage, go to the assigned conveyor belt and double check you got the right one, some bags look the same. If you don’t have any checked-in bags you can just walk out to the arrival / meeting area.

9. Lastly. Look for the familiar face picking you up 🙂