Phrases and words for communicating in the Airport in English

Air travel is becoming increasingly popular and accessible. Whether you are a beginner traveler or an experienced passenger, knowing English will help you feel confident during flights. In this article, we will examine key terms, useful phrases, and necessary vocabulary for the airport that you should know if you plan to travel by plane. We will divide the words and phrases into several categories to make them easier to remember and use, so that the English language at the airport becomes simple and easy for your travels.

Terms related to air ticket booking

• Airline [ˈeəlaɪn] – A company that provides air transportation services.
• Flight [flaɪt] – A journey by aircraft from one place to another.
• Ticket [ˈtɪkɪt] – A document that permits the bearer to travel on a particular aircraft.
• Boarding pass [ˈbɔːdɪŋ pɑːs] – A document issued by an airline that permits a passenger to board a particular flight.
• Round-trip ticket [raʊnd trɪp ˈtɪkɪt] – A ticket for travel to a destination and back to the point of origin.
• One-way ticket [wʌn weɪ ˈtɪkɪt] – A ticket for travel in one direction only.
• Confirmation number [ˌkɒnfəˈmeɪʃən ˈnʌmbə] – A unique code that confirms your reservation.
• Reservation [ˌrezəˈveɪʃən] – An arrangement to have something, such as a seat on a flight, held for your use.
• Itinerary [aɪˈtɪnərəri] – A planned route or schedule of travel.
• Economy class [ɪˈkɒnəmi klɑːs] – The most affordable seating class on an aircraft.
• Business class [ˈbɪznɪs klɑːs] – A higher class of seating than economy, with more amenities.
• First class [fɜːst klɑːs] – The highest and most luxurious seating class on an aircraft.

Important phrases related to booking airline tickets

Questions and answers

1. How can I book a flight?
2. I would like to book a round-trip ticket to London.
3. What is the price for a one-way ticket?
4. Do you offer any discounts for students?
5. Can I get a refund if I cancel my flight?
6. How much is the baggage allowance for this flight?
7. Can I choose my seat when booking the ticket?
8. Is there an additional fee for checked baggage?
9. How can I change my booking?
10. Can I get an electronic boarding pass?

Phrases to clarify information

1. What time does the flight depart?
2. When should I arrive at the airport?
3. Which terminal is the flight leaving from?
4. What is the confirmation number for my reservation?
5. How early can I check in online?
6. Can I upgrade my ticket to business class?
7. Is there a fee for changing the date of my flight?
8. What are the terms and conditions of my ticket?
9. Are meals included in the ticket price?
10. How long is the layover?

Phrases to confirm the reservation

1. Can you please confirm my flight reservation?
2. I would like to verify my travel itinerary.
3. Could you send me an email with the booking details?
4. I need a printed copy of my ticket.
5. Is my flight still on schedule?
6. What is the baggage allowance for this ticket?
7. Do I need a visa for my destination?
8. Can I add travel insurance to my booking?
9. Are there any restrictions on my ticket?
10. Can I use my frequent flyer points to book this flight?

Phrases for changing or canceling a reservation

1. I need to change the date of my flight.
2. Can I cancel my reservation and get a refund?
3. What are the charges for changing my flight?
4. How can I reschedule my flight?
5. I would like to upgrade to a higher class.
6. Can you help me with the process of cancelling my flight?
7. Is there any penalty for cancelling my flight?
8. What is the last date I can change my booking without fees?
9. Can I get a credit for a future flight if I cancel?
10. How do I change my seat assignment?

Terms related to the airport

• Airport – The terminal building and surrounding facilities where passengers board and disembark from aircraft.
• Terminal – A building at an airport where passengers transfer between ground transportation and the facilities that allow them to board and disembark from aircraft.
• Gate – The area in an airport terminal where passengers wait to board their aircraft.
• Security check – The process of screening passengers and their belongings for prohibited items before allowing them to board an aircraft.
• Baggage claim – The area in an airport terminal where passengers retrieve their checked luggage after a flight.
• Customs – The government authority that administers and collects duties on imported goods and enforces customs regulations.
• Immigration – The government agency that regulates the entry of foreign nationals into a country.
• Departure – The act of an aircraft leaving an airport.
• Arrival – The act of an aircraft reaching its destination airport.
• Check-in counter – The area in an airport terminal where passengers confirm their reservations and check their luggage before a flight.
• Boarding – The process of passengers getting onto an aircraft prior to departure.
• Layover – A brief stop during a journey, where a passenger has to change aircraft.

Important phrases related to the airport

Phrases for check-in and baggage check-in

1. Where is the check-in counter for my flight?
2. Can I check in my baggage here?
3. I need to check in two pieces of luggage.
4. Do I need to pay for excess baggage?
5. What is the weight limit for checked baggage?
6. Can I take this bag as carry-on?
7. Is my flight on time?
8. Do I need to show my passport at check-in?
9. Where can I get a baggage tag?
10. How do I label my luggage?

Phrases for passing security checks

1. Where is the security checkpoint?
2. Do I need to remove my shoes and belt?
3. Can I keep my laptop in my bag?
4. Do I need to take out my liquids?
5. Is there a limit on the size of liquids in my carry-on?
6. What items are not allowed through security?
7. Where can I collect my belongings after the scan?
8. Is there a special lane for families with children?
9. Do I need to show my boarding pass here?
10. Can I bring a bottle of water through security?

Phrases for navigating the airport

1. Where is the departure gate for my flight?
2. Can you help me find the terminal for international flights?
3. Where can I find the airport information desk?
4. How do I get to the baggage claim area?
5. Is there a shuttle bus between terminals?
6. Can I get a map of the airport?
7. Where are the nearest restrooms?
8. Where can I find a currency exchange office?
9. Is there a smoking area in the terminal?
10. How can I get to the airport lounge?

Phrases for communicating with airport staff

1. I have a connecting flight. Where do I go next?
2. My flight has been delayed. What should I do?
3. Can you help me with directions to my gate?
4. I lost my boarding pass. Can I get a new one?
5. Where can I find assistance for passengers with disabilities?
6. Is there a place where I can store my luggage for a few hours?
7. Where is the lost and found office?
8. Can you tell me the current gate number for my flight?
9. I need assistance with my baggage. Where should I go?
10. What are the emergency procedures at this airport?

Phrases for announcements and flight information

1. Attention, passengers of flight 123 to New York, please proceed to gate 10.
2. Flight 456 to Paris is now boarding.
3. Final call for passengers on flight 789 to Tokyo.
4. The gate for flight 321 to London has changed to gate 5.
5. Please have your boarding pass and ID ready for inspection.
6. There is a weather delay for flight 654 to Sydney.
7. Flight 987 to Rome has been cancelled.
8. For passengers requiring assistance, please contact the information desk.
9. We apologize for the inconvenience. Thank you for your patience.
10. Please listen for further announcements.

Phrases for purchasing and using services at the airport

1. Where can I buy a SIM card for my phone?
2. Is there a place where I can charge my phone?
3. Can I get a taxi from here to the city center?
4. Where can I find a car rental service?
5. Can I buy some snacks and drinks here?
6. Is there a pharmacy in the airport?
7. Can I buy duty-free items here?
8. Where can I find a Wi-Fi hotspot?
9. Is there a place where I can rest while waiting for my flight?
10. Can I get a travel adapter here?

Terms related to baggage

• Baggage [ˈbæɡɪdʒ] – The luggage and personal belongings that a passenger carries on a journey.
• Luggage [ˈlʌɡɪdʒ] – Suitcases, bags, and other cases used to hold belongings during travel.
• Carry-on bag [ˈkæri ɒn bæɡ] – A small bag or suitcase that a passenger is permitted to take into the aircraft cabin.
• Checked baggage [tʃekt ˈbæɡɪdʒ] – Luggage that a passenger checks in and is transported in the cargo hold of the aircraft.
• Overweight [ˌəʊvəˈweɪt] – Baggage that exceeds the maximum weight allowance set by the airline.
• Baggage allowance [ˈbæɡɪdʒ əˈlaʊəns] – The maximum weight and/or number of bags that a passenger is permitted to carry, either as carry-on or checked baggage.
• Lost luggage [lɒst ˈlʌɡɪdʒ] – Baggage that has gone missing during travel and cannot be located by the airline.
• Baggage tag [ˈbæɡɪdʒ tæɡ] – A label or tag attached to checked baggage to identify the owner and destination.
• Suitcase [ˈsuːtkeɪs] – A rectangular, portable case used for carrying clothing and personal belongings during travel.
• Backpack [ˈbækpæk] – A bag with two shoulder straps that is worn on the back, often used as a carry-on bag.

Important phrases related to luggage

Phrases for baggage claim

1. Where can I check in my luggage?
2. How many bags can I check in?
3. What is the weight limit for checked baggage?
4. Is there a charge for checked baggage?
5. Can I check in oversized luggage here?
6. How much does it cost to check an extra bag?
7. Do I need to label my checked bags?
8. What is the fee for excess baggage?
9. Can I get a receipt for my checked baggage?
10. Where should I drop off my oversized luggage?

Phrases for asking about carry-on luggage

1. What is the size limit for carry-on luggage?
2. Can I bring a backpack as a carry-on?
3. Are there any restrictions on liquids in my carry-on?
4. How many carry-on items are allowed per passenger?
5. Do I need to remove my laptop from my carry-on at security?
6. Can I take a small suitcase and a handbag as carry-on?
7. Are baby strollers allowed as carry-on items?
8. What is the maximum weight for a carry-on bag?
9. Can I bring duty-free purchases on board as carry-on?
10. Do I need to declare any items in my carry-on?

Phrases for retrieving baggage

1. Where is the baggage claim area?
2. Which carousel will my luggage be on?
3. How long will it take for my baggage to arrive?
4. Where can I find a luggage cart?
5. Do I need to show my baggage claim tag?
6. Can you help me with my luggage?
7. My baggage is damaged. Where can I report it?
8. I think my baggage is missing. What should I do?
9. Is there a lost and found office here?
10. Where can I file a claim for lost baggage?

Phrases for baggage service inquiries

1. Is there a baggage wrapping service?
2. Can I store my luggage here for a few hours?
3. How much does it cost to store my luggage?
4. Are there lockers available for luggage storage?
5. Where can I buy a luggage tag?
6. Can I rent a baggage trolley?
7. Is there a place where I can weigh my luggage?
8. Do you provide baggage transfer services?
9. Can I arrange for my luggage to be delivered to my hotel?
10. Is there a service for sending luggage to another city?

Phrases for lost or delayed baggage situations

1. My baggage did not arrive. Who should I contact?
2. I need to report lost baggage.
3. Can I get compensation for my lost luggage?
4. How long will it take to locate my missing baggage?
5. Where can I fill out a lost baggage claim form?
6. What is the procedure for delayed baggage?
7. How can I track my lost luggage?
8. Will you deliver my delayed baggage to my address?
9. Can I get a refund for essential items I had to buy?
10. Who do I contact if I need more information about my lost baggage?

Phrases for baggage policy inquiries

1. What is the baggage policy for this airline?
2. Are there any restrictions on carry-on baggage?
3. How many checked bags are allowed for international flights?
4. What are the fees for overweight baggage?
5. Are there any items that are not allowed in checked baggage?
6. Can I carry fragile items in my checked baggage?
7. Are sports equipment considered as oversized luggage?
8. What is the policy for carrying medical equipment?
9. Can I travel with pets as checked baggage?
10. Do you offer insurance for checked baggage?

Terms related to the flight

Phrases for boarding a plane

1. Where is my boarding gate?
2. What time does boarding start for my flight?
3. Do I need to show my boarding pass here?
4. Is this the line for flight 123 to New York?
5. Can I board early if I have special needs?
6. Where can I find the pre-boarding area?
7. What is the seating policy for children?
8. Can I take my stroller to the gate?
9. Where do I drop off my gate-checked bag?
10. Is this a priority boarding line?

Phrases for announcements on board

1. Welcome aboard flight 456 to London.
2. Please fasten your seat belts and prepare for takeoff.
3. In case of an emergency, oxygen masks will drop from the overhead compartment.
4. Please stow your tray tables and bring your seat backs to an upright position.
5. We are now cruising at an altitude of 35,000 feet.
6. Please turn off all electronic devices or switch them to airplane mode.
7. Our estimated arrival time in Paris is 3:00 PM local time.
8. Please remain seated until the fasten seat belt sign is turned off.
9. We will be serving meals and beverages shortly.
10. If you need assistance, please press the call button.

Phrases for questions to flight attendants

1. Can I have a blanket, please?
2. Is there an in-flight meal service?
3. Can I purchase headphones for the in-flight entertainment?
4. Where is the nearest restroom?
5. Do you have any vegetarian meal options?
6. Can I get a cup of water, please?
7. How do I use the in-flight entertainment system?
8. Are there any duty-free items available for purchase?
9. Can I change my seat if there are empty ones available?
10. Do you have any pillows available?

Phrases for communicating with neighbors

1. Is this seat taken?
2. Would you mind switching seats with me?
3. Can you help me put my bag in the overhead compartment?
4. Do you mind if I recline my seat?
5. Could I please get through?
6. Excuse me, may I use the armrest?
7. Do you mind if I open the window shade?
8. Would you like to trade seats so you can sit with your family?
9. Can I help you with your bag?
10. Could you please pass the in-flight magazine?

Phrases for flight and takeoff

1. What time is our estimated takeoff?
2. Is there any turbulence expected during the flight?
3. Can I keep my bag under the seat during takeoff?
4. How long will the flight take?
5. What is the current altitude?
6. Can I use my electronic devices now?
7. Is the Wi-Fi available on this flight?
8. Can I get an update on our arrival time?
9. Are there any expected delays?
10. Will there be a second meal service on this flight?

Phrases for landing and after flight

1. When do we start our descent?
2. What is the weather like at our destination?
3. Can you help me fill out the customs form?
4. Will we have to go through passport control upon arrival?
5. Where do I collect my luggage after landing?
6. Are there any immigration forms to fill out?
7. Can I stay seated during the entire descent?
8. Will there be any announcements before landing?

The most necessary phrases for communication at the airport

• How much does this flight cost?
• Where is the check-in counter?
• Can I get an upgrade?
• How long is the layover?
• Is there free Wi-Fi on board?
• Could I have some water, please?
• Where is my seat?
• I need help with my baggage.
• When does the flight depart?
• Where can I find the baggage claim?

Practice new words and phrases

Use ready-made flashcards to practice some important words and phrases:

>