A theory called the “Airport Theory” has gone viral on TikTok, leaving users intrigued by the experiment conducted before people travel.
TikTok users are testing the “Airport Theory,” and videos about it are trending on the platform. The theory involves passengers arriving for their flights just 15 to 20 minutes before takeoff—an approach strongly discouraged by airlines.
Airports generally recommend passengers arrive two to three hours early to avoid unexpected issues.
TikTok influencer Michael Dicostanzo decided to put the theory to the test at Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, known as the busiest airport in the world.
His journey took less than 14 minutes, including passing through security and taking a train to the gate. In the end, he successfully boarded his flight.
Another TikTok influencer, Jenny Kurtz, wasn’t as lucky. She arrived at her gate only to see the message “Flight Closed” on the screen.
“To anyone thinking of trying the Airport Theory, don’t do it—I missed my flight,” she wrote. Her video went viral, amassing 19.4 million views.
@michael.dicostanzo Can Airport Theory survive the world’s BUSIEST airport?? 👀✈️🤔 #airportheory #atlantaairport #challenge ♬ original sound – Michael DiCostanzo
Photos and video: TikTok @jenny_kurtzz @michael.dicostanzo. This content was created with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team.
