You’ve successfully navigated airport security, checked your boarding details, and arrived promptly at the gate. Now, it’s time for the final step—boarding the aircraft.

Preparing for Boarding

• Identification:
  • Schengen flights: Usually require just your boarding pass and ID card.
  • Non-Schengen flights: Require your passport and possibly a visa. Ensure your visa (if required) is arranged before arriving at the airport to avoid boarding issues.

Hand Luggage Check

• Airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, strictly monitor hand luggage size.
• If your luggage exceeds specified dimensions, expect to pay extra. Backpacks usually face fewer restrictions than hard-shell suitcases.
• To avoid additional fees, wear extra layers or move small items into your pockets.

Potential Luggage Issues

• Airlines may require passengers to check in hand luggage if overhead bins are full.
• If you’re traveling with a small handbag, pack essentials you’ll need during the flight separately, such as:
  • Documents and boarding pass
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • Snacks
  • Hygiene items (wet wipes, tissues, lip balm)
  • Headphones

Boarding Procedure

• Have your boarding pass (mobile or printed) ready at the gate.
• Boarding methods vary:
  • Jet Bridges: Direct indoor boarding through an extended bridge.
  • Outdoor Boarding: Via stairs directly on the apron; dress accordingly for weather conditions.
  • Bus Transfers: At larger airports, passengers may be transported by bus to the aircraft.

Finding Your Seat

• Flight attendants will guide you, particularly helpful on larger aircraft.
• Seats are numbered clearly:
  • Single-aisle aircraft: ABC–aisle–DEF
  • Dual-aisle aircraft (e.g., Boeing 787): ABC–aisle–DEF–aisle–JKL
• Keep essentials handy and store larger luggage overhead promptly to avoid blocking the aisle.
• Seating at emergency exits offers extra legroom but requires passengers to be at least 16 years old and able to communicate in English.

Safety and Comfort

• Before departure, flight attendants provide safety instructions—pay close attention.
• Seats on budget airlines often don’t recline, whereas premium airlines offer adjustable headrests and reclining seats.
• Overhead panels feature:
  • Air conditioning vents
  • Reading lights
  • Call buttons for flight attendants
• Seat belts must remain fastened during takeoff, landing, and turbulence.

Boarding Times and Priority Boarding

• Gates typically close 30 minutes before scheduled departure.
• Check-in counters usually open two hours before departure and close approximately 40 minutes before.
• Priority boarding is available at extra cost or for premium passengers and those needing assistance.

Traveling with Children

• Your own stroller: Must pass through security and be folded for X-ray screening. You’ll hand it to the gate staff for safe storage during flight.
• Free stroller rentals: Available at Terminal 1 (post-passport control) and Terminal 2 (post-security) for children up to 25 kg.

Following these guidelines ensures a smooth, stress-free boarding experience at Prague Airport, setting you up for a pleasant flight ahead.