When to arrive at CDG — check-in, security, and boarding guide
CDG recommends arriving 2 hours before Schengen flights and 3 hours before international/long-haul flights. In practice, 2 hours is usually enough for Schengen if you have no checked bags; 2.5 hours gives a comfortable margin. T1 security can be slow during the 07:00–09:00 peak. T2E K gates (long-haul) require extra time for passport control after security.
Key facts
Recommended arrival times
For Schengen flights with carry-on only: arrive 90 minutes before. With checked bags: 2 hours. For international/long-haul: 2.5 hours is comfortable, 3 hours is CDG's official recommendation. T2E K/L/M gates (Air France long-haul) require passport control after security — add 15 minutes. Morning peaks (07:00–09:00) add 15–20 minutes to security queues.
Check-in deadlines
Check-in desks typically close 60 minutes before departure for international flights and 40 minutes for Schengen. Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure for most airlines. If you've checked in online and have no bags, you can arrive later — but don't cut it below 60 minutes for international or 45 minutes for Schengen. Bag drop queues can be long during peak hours.
Practical tips
About this information
This knowledge page is based on official airport websites, transport authority data, and editorial research. Information is reviewed periodically but may not reflect real-time conditions. Always check with your airline and the official airport website before travelling.
Last reviewed: July 2026