We’ve written before at HuffPost UK about the most surprisingly dirty parts of a place, as well as why airline staff really greet you on board. 

But let’s be real here ― most of us just want to know how to get a cheap flight that won’t get cancelled or delayed last-minute, leaving us abandoned in an airport for hours.

While some causes, like the current Storm Éowyn or mechanical issues, sometimes plain ol’ backlogs or earlier mistakes can cause the issue.

So, we thought we’d find out when the best time to avoid delays starts.

And?

When it comes to avoiding delays, the earlier the better ― but Expedia’s 2023 data says anything before 3pm is likely to run pretty smoothly. 

The travel company found that flights which depart before that time are a whopping 50% less likely to experience cancellations.

The US Department of Transportation found that over 80% of flights that left the ground between 6 am and 9 pm took off on time, but those departing between 6 pm and 9 pm only had a 60% chance. 

So yes, the earlier the better ― but not quite as early as you might think.

Any other tips?

Yes ― the earlier you book your flight overall, the more you seem to save. 

Though six months earlier might sound extreme, Expedia found it saved internationally flying customers about 10% more than last-minute flyers. 

Flight delays also tend to be less frequent during March and April, they add.