The airport has its own English. The good news: it is short and repeatable. Learn a few sentences and you can go anywhere.
At check-in
Show your passport and say where you are going.
Good morning. I am flying to London.
Then they may ask about your bag.
One bag, please. Can I have a window seat?
At security
You will hear short orders. You do not need to answer with long sentences.
Please take off your shoes. — Okay. Put your bag here. — Sure.
At the gate
Listen for your flight number and the word boarding.
This is the final call for flight BA 205.
If you are not sure, ask.
Is this the gate for London?
If something goes wrong
Delays happen. Ask a simple question and stay calm.
My flight is delayed. What time does it leave?
If you miss a flight, go to the desk and say:
I missed my flight. Can you help me?
Words to remember
- gate — the place where you get on the plane
- boarding — the time when you get on the plane
- delayed — later than the planned time
- flight — a journey by plane
Questions & answers
Q: What if I miss my flight?
Go to the airline desk. Say, "I missed my flight. Can you help me?" Stay calm and polite.
Q: How do I ask for a window seat?
Say, "A window seat, please." If there is none, they will tell you.
Q: What does "boarding" mean?
It means it is time to get on the plane. Listen for your flight number.
Q: Do I need to speak fast?
No. Slow, clear English is better. Airport staff hear many accents every day.
Q: What if I don't understand a question?
Say, "Sorry, can you say that again?" They will say it more slowly.