Plan to arrive at BOS 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours for international. TSA lines average ~20 minutes and 77% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to BOS?
Boston Logan International — Boston
Recommended Arrival
2 hours
before a domestic flight
3 hours for international
~20m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
77%
On time
75m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
7 AM (26-32 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Terminal info at BOS
Terminals: Terminal A (Delta), Terminal B (American, United, others), Terminal C (JetBlue), Terminal E (International)
Getting around: Free shuttle buses between terminals; some airside connections between adjacent terminals
Transit time: 10-20 minutes between terminals
Re-screening: Some terminal changes require going through TSA again. Most terminal changes require exiting security and re-screening. Terminals B and C have a post-security connector. International arrivals in Terminal E must re-clear security for domestic connections.
Tips for arriving at BOS
- →Morning flights are best — less delay risk, shorter TSA lines, calmer weather.
- →Check in online — skip the counter and go straight to security with a mobile boarding pass.
- →TSA PreCheck saves time — typically 5-10 minutes vs. standard lanes. $78 for 5 years.
- →Holidays need more buffer — add 30-45 minutes around Thanksgiving, Christmas, and summer peaks.
Common questions
How early should I get to Logan (BOS) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at BOS 2 hours before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at BOS average around 20 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 77%. The fastest time through security is 4 AM (5 min). Add extra time if you're checking bags or traveling during peak hours.
How early should I get to BOS for an international flight?
For international flights from BOS, arrive 3 hours before departure. International check-in counters close 60 minutes before departure, and you may need extra time for passport control and security screening. Airlines recommend 3 hours for international departures.
What is the best time to go through security at BOS?
The fastest time through TSA at BOS is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 7 AM (26-32 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at BOS?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at BOS are significantly faster — typically 5-10 minutes vs. the standard line. PreCheck members keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on and leave laptops in bags. If you fly more than twice a year, PreCheck ($78 for 5 years) pays for itself quickly.
How long are TSA wait times at BOS?
TSA wait times at BOS are currently around about 17-23 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 7 AM (26-32 minutes).