English for the Airport
Travelling by plane can feel stressful when you do not speak the language. This guide teaches you the most important English words and phrases you need at the airport. All sentences are simple and use everyday words.
At Check-In
When you arrive at the airport, you go to the check-in desk. You need your passport and your ticket. The staff will ask you some questions. Here are the most common ones.
Can I see your passport, please?
How many bags are you checking in?
Would you like a window seat or an aisle seat?
Here is my passport.
I have one suitcase.
Going Through Security
After check-in, you go through security. You must put your bag on the belt and walk through the scanner. Sometimes the staff will ask you to remove items.
Please remove your belt and shoes.
Do you have any liquids in your bag?
Please put your laptop in a separate tray.
At the Gate
Your boarding pass shows your gate number. Go to the gate and wait for your flight to be called. Listen for announcements about your flight number.
Flight BA205 is now boarding at gate 14.
Excuse me, where is gate 14?
Is this the queue for London?
On the Plane
Once you are on the plane, find your seat and put your bag in the overhead locker. The cabin crew will help you if you need anything.
Excuse me, I think this is my seat.
Can I have some water, please?
Please fasten your seatbelt.
What time do we land?
Quick Practice
Try to answer these questions in English. Say your answer out loud.
- You are at check-in. The staff asks for your passport. What do you say?
- You cannot find gate 7. How do you ask for help?
- You are thirsty on the plane. How do you ask for water?
- Someone is sitting in your seat. What do you say politely?
Want to keep learning? Try our English for Travel guide or practise everyday English conversations.
Planning to study abroad? Read our article on why English is important for studying abroad.