Arriving at the airport hours before a flight is often viewed as a sign of discipline, but it is deeply rooted in psychological needs for certainty and control. This behavior is primarily driven by anticipatory anxiety, where individuals fear negative outcomes, such as missing a flight, which they perceive as a high-stakes failure. Psychologists link this to Prospect Theory, which suggests that the fear of loss is more potent than the potential for gain. Additionally, traits like neuroticism and conscientiousness contribute to this tendency, as individuals with these traits are more vigilant and organized.

The Planning Fallacy, which leads people to underestimate the time needed for tasks, also plays a role, prompting some to allocate extra time to avoid the risk of missing their flights. Past experiences, particularly negative ones, condition individuals to arrive earlier to prevent repeating discomfort. This behavior is prevalent among frequent travelers, including business professionals and influencers, who often advocate for early arrivals as a strategy to minimize unpredictability.

While arriving early can provide a sense of control and reduce anxiety, it may become problematic if it disrupts daily life or leads to excessive stress. Recognizing these patterns is essential for achieving a balance between preparedness and peace of mind.