Here are five helpful tips for having a smooth experience at the airport. Prague Airport shares advice on how early you should arrive, how to navigate baggage check-in and security without any issues, and highlights the various liquid regulations in its terminals. These practical suggestions are part of the “Check-in” campaign that the airport launches every year before the busy travel season, which is anticipated to be exceptionally busy this year.
Complete information, including useful videos, can be found on the dedicated web page at www.prg.aero/odbavtese. Passengers can also access the digital assistant AVA, which will keep track of their flight and send notifications about significant updates.
“This year, it’s more important than ever for travelers to head to the airport early. Throughout the busy season, the reconstruction of the Aviatická x Lipská intersection at the airport will impact both arrivals and departures, which might cause traffic delays,” states Martin Kučera, a member of the Prague Airport Board of Directors. He continues: “We strongly recommend that passengers primarily use public transport during this construction period, as it won’t be affected by the traffic disturbances at the construction site.”
Year by year, self-service check-in is becoming increasingly popular. Passengers can now find 31 self-service kiosks across both terminals, providing an alternative to the traditional check-in desks where long lines can form during busy times. Additionally, many are opting to check in their own luggage, which can be done at 32 desks during the summer. Currently, 18 airlines support this self-service baggage drop-off option, with more likely to join soon. Last year alone, more than 500,000 luggage pieces were checked in using this method.
It’s always wise for travelers to check the entry requirements for their destination country beforehand. For instance, EU citizens, including Czechs, need an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) to travel to the United Kingdom. Remember that the eDoklady (the Czech electronic ID app) cannot be used as identification at travel checkpoints; it’s necessary to carry a physical document like a national ID card or passport. If a passenger holds a European passport, they can directly access the European passport lines to avoid long waits at some airports.
“The good news is that eight new CT scanners have enabled us to allow a greater volume of liquids in hand luggage in Terminal 2. Our studies show that these relaxed rules have significantly boosted passenger satisfaction with the security checks,” Martin Kučera adds.
When going through a CT scanner, passengers do not have to take out their electronic devices or liquids from their hand luggage. However, this requirement still applies at the other security lanes. Another bonus for passengers flying from Terminal 2 is that, in addition to the standard liquid allowance of containers up to 100 milliliters in a maximum one-liter bag, they can also bring one extra container of up to two liters. On the other hand, Terminal 1 has not yet implemented CT scanners due to its current layout. However, plans to install this modern technology are part of future renovations, which will include creating a central security area in Terminal 1. For now, the rules in Terminal 1 remain the same: only liquids of up to 100 milliliters in a single clear one-liter bag are allowed, and all liquids and electronics must be taken out for separate inspection.
One common error passengers make is packing electronics incorrectly. It’s advisable to keep electronic devices in hand luggage. For safety reasons, this is mandatory for devices with larger batteries, like power banks, laptops, and tablets. Smaller electronics, such as shavers or electric toothbrushes that have smaller batteries, can be packed in either hand luggage or checked luggage. However, passengers should ensure that these devices cannot accidentally turn on. Generally, the accepted maximum capacity for batteries is 100 Wh. Not following these rules can lead to flight delays or even prevent a passenger from flying altogether.
To make their waiting time at the airport more enjoyable, passengers have several options. For example, there are relaxation zones, including one in Terminal 2 that accommodates up to 100 guests. Besides comfy seating, you can access Wi-Fi and charging sockets. Families traveling with children will find special rooms in both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, equipped with changing facilities, a play area, and a kitchenette for warming up baby food. Kids can also enjoy the large play area in the transit zone, as well as smaller play corners with toys found in various departure lounges.
In partnership with its tenants, the airport is also extending the operating hours of selected restaurants, bistros, and snack shops, ensuring that passengers traveling on any flight, including night flights, can find something to eat. Throughout the summer, there will be 17 outlets open 24/7, including the Runway Restaurant, located in both the public and non-public areas of the airport, serving breakfast and main dishes from Czech and international cuisines. Diners in the public area can enjoy their meals while overlooking the aircraft from the outdoor terrace.
Prague Airport anticipates welcoming over 11.9 million passengers this summer, representing a 3.6% increase compared to last year, even in light of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.