Plan to arrive at CAE 2 hours before a domestic flight or 3 hours for international. TSA lines average ~9 minutes and 81% of flights depart on time. Fastest through security: 4 AM (5 min).
How Early Should I Get to CAE?
Columbia Metropolitan — Columbia
Recommended Arrival
2 hours
before a domestic flight
3 hours for international
~9m
TSA wait
30m
Check-in & bag drop
81%
On time
78m
Avg delay
Best & worst times through security
Fastest
4 AM (5 min)
Busiest
6 AM (22-28 minutes)
Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Tips for arriving at CAE
- →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 Columbia (CAE) for a domestic flight?
We recommend arriving at CAE 2 hours before your domestic flight. TSA wait times at CAE average around 9 minutes, and the airport has an on-time departure rate of 81%. 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 CAE for an international flight?
For international flights from CAE, 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 CAE?
The fastest time through TSA at CAE is 4 AM (5 min). The busiest time is 6 AM (22-28 minutes). Wait times are similar throughout the week.
Does TSA PreCheck help at CAE?
Yes. TSA PreCheck lanes at CAE 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 CAE?
TSA wait times at CAE are currently around about 6-12 minutes. Fastest: 4 AM (5 min). Busiest: 6 AM (22-28 minutes).