At the Airport: Real-Life Travel English

REVIEW – Travel Experiences

A place that people travel to is called a ______. 

A website where people share travel experiences is a travel ______. 

When someone suggests a place or gives advice, it is a ______. 

A special place that is not well-known is called a ______ ______.

A place that you should definitely visit is a -. 

GRAMMAR FOCUS: Polite Requests (Travel English)

We use polite questions to sound natural and respectful.

Can / Could / Would

Examples:

Can I check in here?

Where can I find my gate?

Would it be possible to sit by the window?

FIXED PHRASES

I’d like to check in – Use: at the check-in desk

Can I have a window / aisle seat? – Use: to choose your seat

When does boarding begin? – Use: to ask about boarding time

AIRPORT VOCABULARY (US & UK ENGLISH)

ROLEPLAY: CHECK-IN DESK (GUIDED CONVERSATION)

Staff: Good morning. Where are you flying today?

Passenger: Say you want to check in and mention your destination.

Staff: May I see your passport, please?

Passenger: Give your passport.

Staff: Do you have any luggage to check in?

Passenger:

- I have one suitcase to check in

- I have two bags to check in

- I only have carry-on / hand luggage

Staff: What seat would you prefer: window, aisle, or middle?

Passenger:

- I’d like a window seat

- I’d prefer an aisle seat

- Middle is fine

Staff: Here is your boarding pass / boarding card. Your gate is 24. Boarding begins at 10:30.

Passenger:

- Where is the gate?

- When does boarding begin?

- Is the flight on time?

Staff: The gate is near security. Boarding starts on time.

Passenger: Respond politely.

Staff: Have a nice flight!

Passenger: Respond naturally.

CONVERSATION QUESTIONS (WITH EXAMPLE ANSWERS)

Have you ever missed a flight? – Yes, I missed a flight once because I was late.

Do you usually arrive early at the airport? – Yes, I usually arrive two hours early.

What do you do at the airport while waiting? – I usually walk around or get a coffee.

Do you find airports stressful? – Sometimes, especially when I’m in a hurry.

Have you ever had a problem at the airport? – Yes, my flight was delayed once.

What is the most difficult part of the airport for you? – Security can be stressful.

Do you prefer small or big airports? – I prefer small airports because they are easier.

Have you ever travelled alone? – Yes, I have travelled alone several times.

What do you always take in your hand luggage? – I always take my phone and documents.

How do you feel before a flight? – I feel excited but sometimes nervous.