The general recommendation for international flights is to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled departure. This allows sufficient time for check-in, security screening, passport control, and boarding, which usually starts 45 minutes to an hour before departure. Some airports or airlines may have specific requirements, but the 3-hour guideline covers most situations to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. For larger or busier airports, or if checking bags, arriving even earlier may be advised. Boarding itself can take longer for international flights due to the size of the aircraft and additional procedures.