This guide helps you, a Ukrainian traveler, speak practical and confident English at Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). You’ll find ready-to-use scripts for check-in, TSA security, U.S. immigration (CBP) interviews, customs declarations, and baggage problems. Dialogues are written in natural American English and include short Ukrainian explanations where helpful, plus pronunciation tips for the most important questions. Use these scripts to avoid translating in your head or relying on phone translators — practice a few lines and you’ll get through the airport more smoothly.
Why this guide is for you
You may be arriving to or departing from Boston, or you may be helping family or friends through Logan. Airports are stressful anywhere, and language makes the stress worse. This post focuses on the real, short phrases that officers and staff expect to hear, taught in friendly, usable language. You’ll learn what to say, how to say it, and what to show. There’s also a compact glossary with Ukrainian translations to speed comprehension (наприклад, passport — паспорт).
Before you fly: essentials to check
Before you leave for the airport, confirm your flight status, have your passport and visa documents ready, and make a plan for transportation from Logan to your final destination. If you’re flying international, check entry rules for the U.S. and for any connection countries. If you’re not confident in English, write down a few key sentences from this guide on your phone or a small paper card to use at counters or when talking to drivers.
Documents and apps you need
Carry your passport (паспорт), visa or ESTA confirmation, boarding pass, any COVID or vaccination documents if required, and proof of onward travel if asked. Download airline apps, the Massport (Logan) maps if you need terminal info, and have a copy of your hotel reservation or invitation letter. Keep your documents in an easy-to-reach place so you can present them quickly when asked.
How to pack to move faster through Logan
Pack liquids in a clear resealable bag of 3.4 oz / 100 ml containers (TSA rule), keep laptops and electronics at the top of your carry-on, and avoid packing prohibited items. Label checked bags with your contact info. If you plan tight connections inside Logan, try to travel with a small carry-on only; it makes transfer and security faster and reduces the chance of lost luggage.
Key vocabulary to know
Familiarize yourself with a short set of words that will come up repeatedly: passport (паспорт), boarding pass, gate, terminal, baggage claim (отримання багажу), lost and found, customs (митниця), immigration (імміграція), TSA, and connecting flight. Knowing these words will help you understand announcements and staff questions.
At check-in (airline counter or kiosk)
Check-in staff will ask for your passport and whether you need a seat assignment or assistance. If you have baggage to check, they’ll ask for weight and may charge fees. When you’re at Logan’s counters or kiosks, smile and hand over your passport, boarding pass, and any required documentation without waiting for them to ask — it makes the process faster and friendlier.
Scripts for check-in at the counter
You can copy and paste these scripts directly when speaking to airline staff:
You: “Hello. I’m checking in for flight [airline and flight number] to [destination]. Here is my passport.”
Agent: “Do you have any checked bags?”
You: “Yes, one bag. How much is the fee?” (Як коштує плата?)
Agent: “No, I don’t have any checked bags.”
You: “Okay, thank you. Could I have a window/aisle seat, please?” (Чи можна місце біля вікна/проходу?)
These lines work whether the agent speaks quickly or slowly — speak clearly and slowly, and point to your ticket or screen if needed.
Scripts for check-in at a self-service kiosk
Many kiosks at Logan let you print your boarding pass and bag tags. Use these phrases if you need staff help:
You: “Excuse me, I need help with the kiosk. It’s not printing my boarding pass.”
Agent: “Can I see your passport?”
You: “Yes, here it is.” (Так, ось він.)
Kiosks sometimes require scanning the passport or entering your booking reference; say “booking reference” (номер бронювання) if you need clarification.
Common check-in questions and pronunciation tips
You will often hear: “Are you checking any bags?” (Are you CHÉCK-ing any BAGS?) — reply: “Yes, one bag.” or “No, carry-on only.” Another common phrase: “Can I see your passport and boarding pass?” (kæn ay si yʊər PAS-port ænd BÓRD-ing pass?) — prepare to take them out and present them in one hand.
Security screening (TSA) at Logan
TSA screening is a standard part of flying in the U.S. You’ll remove shoes in some lanes, take out laptops and liquids, and walk through a metal detector or body scanner. Officers will ask you simple questions about your items and whether you packed your bags yourself. Stay calm and follow instructions.
What officers will ask you and how to answer
TSA officers may ask: “Do you have anything in your pockets?” (do͡o yu hæv EN-ee-thing in yor POK-its?) — answer “No” or take items out and say, “No, just my passport” (Ні, лише мій паспорт). Another common question: “Did you pack your bags yourself?” — say “Yes, I packed them myself” (Так, я запакував(ла) їх сам(а)). If an officer asks about electronics: “Please remove your laptop” — say “Okay” and hand it over.
Lines about liquids, electronics, laptop removal — scripts
Use these quick scripts at screening:
Officer: “Place your liquids and laptop in the tray.”
You: “Okay. Do I put my phone in the tray too?”
Officer: “You can leave small electronics in your bag, but put your laptop and liquids in a tray.”
You: “Thank you.”
If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed: “Is this okay?” and point to the object. If you have medication or baby food: “This is medication / baby food. It’s for personal use.” (Це ліки / дитяче харчування. Для особистого вжитку.)
Pronunciation tips for TSA phrases
Practice these key phrases out loud: “Open your bag, please” (OH-puhn yor bag, pleez), “Place your laptop in a bin” (play-s yor LAP-top in uh BIN), “Remove your shoes” (rih-MOOV yor SHOOZ). Say them slowly and clearly, emphasizing the nouns (bag, laptop, shoes) so you are understood.
Immigration / Passport control (CBP)
When you arrive to the U.S., you’ll pass through Customs and Border Protection (CBP) or automated passport control kiosks. Be prepared for short interviews where officers ask about your trip purpose, length of stay, and where you will stay. Answer honestly and succinctly.
Usual interview questions and sample answers (arriving)
Typical CBP questions and example responses:
Officer: “What is the purpose of your visit?”
You: “Tourism / visiting family / business.” (Туризм / відвідати родичів / бізнес.)
Officer: “How long will you stay?”
You: “Two weeks.” (Два тижні.)
Officer: “Where will you be staying?”
You: “At [hotel name / friend’s address]. Here is my reservation / invitation.” (Ось моя бронь / запрошення.)
Officer: “Do you have a return ticket?”
You: “Yes, I do. Here it is.” (Так, ось.)
Officer: “Do you have anything to declare?”
You: “No.” or “Yes, I have gifts.” and then declare.
Keep answers short and avoid extra details unless asked.
If you’re entering on ESTA, B1/B2 or other visa — scripts
If you’re on ESTA: “I’m traveling under the Visa Waiver Program.” If you have a tourist visa (B1/B2): “I have a B-2 tourist visa.” If the officer asks about work intentions: “No, I will not work in the U.S.; this is a tourist visit.” Speak clearly: “I won’t be working.” (Я не буду працювати.)
What to do if officer asks for proof of funds or return ticket
Keep a print or digital copy of bank statements or cash amounts to show funds: “Here is my bank statement” (Ось виписка з банку) or “I have cash and a credit card” (У мене є готівка та кредитна картка). For return ticket: “Here’s my return flight confirmation.” Being prepared calms the officer and speeds your entry.
Secondary inspection — what happens and how to behave
Secondary inspection can feel intimidating but is routine for many travelers. If an officer says, “Please follow me,” stay calm and follow instructions. You may be asked more questions, show additional documents, or have your luggage checked. Be polite and cooperative: “Yes, officer” and “Thank you.” In Ukrainian, that’s “Так, офіцере. Дякую.” Secondary is not a punishment — it’s a closer review.
Customs declarations
After immigration, you’ll pass through customs. You’ll either use a declaration form or an electronic kiosk. Declare items, food, currency over $10,000, and restricted goods.
How to declare items and money — script
When you reach a customs agent, use simple sentences:
Officer: “Do you have anything to declare?”
You: “Yes, I have a few gifts and some food.” or “No, I do not have anything to declare.”
Officer: “Are you carrying more than $10,000 in cash?”
You: “No.” or “Yes, here is the amount.” (If yes, you must declare it.)
If you bring Ukrainian food, declare it: “I have packaged food from Ukraine — canned goods and bread” (У мене упаковані продукти з України — консервація і хліб). Some fresh foods are not allowed; better to declare and let officers advise.
Questions about food, gifts, or agricultural items (Ukrainian foods)
If you bring traditional foods (salami, cheeses, honey), ask before packing: “Is this allowed?” at the airline or declare it: “This is a sealed pack of [product].” Often processed and sealed items are okay, but fresh produce and some meats are restricted. Saying “I’m declaring this” is better than being fined.
Baggage issues
Baggage problems are common after long flights. If your checked bag doesn’t arrive, locate the airline baggage office at Logan and fill out a claim. Use clear language and keep all receipts for expenses from lost luggage.
Lost luggage script at baggage claim and airline desk
At the airline desk say:
You: “Hello. My luggage did not arrive. My name is [name], flight [flight number].”
Agent: “Can I see your baggage claim ticket?”
You: “Yes, here it is. My bag tag number is [tag number].”
Agent: “We will file a report and arrange delivery.”
You: “Thank you. When can I expect it, and where will it be delivered?”
Agent: “We will deliver it to this address.”
You: “Please call or text me at [phone number].”
Ask for a paper copy of the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and a reference number. In Ukrainian: “Дайте, будь ласка, номер справи для багажу.” This helps follow up.
Compensation and form names (Property Irregularity Report – PIR)
Ask: “May I have a copy of the PIR? What is the reference number?” You might also ask about emergency toiletry kits or reimbursement if the bag is delayed. Save receipts for essentials you buy while waiting for the bag.
Tight connections and re-checking bags
If you have a short connection at Logan, check whether your bags are checked through to your final destination. If not, you’ll need to pick them up and re-check for the connecting carrier. If time is tight, go directly to the nearest agent and say “I have a tight connection; can you help me?” (У мене тісне пересадження; Ви можете допомогти?)
How to ask for help and rebook (scripts)
If you miss a connection, use this script:
You: “My flight just missed the connection. Can you rebook me on the next flight to [destination]?”
Agent: “Do you have your boarding pass?”
You: “Yes, here it is. Is there any seat available today?”
Agent: “We’ll put you on standby / rebook you.”
You: “Thank you. Is there a shuttle between terminals?” (Дякую. Чи є шаттл між терміналами?)
Airline staff are used to rebooking — be calm and polite and ask for options.
Getting between terminals at Logan (transport help)
Logan has several terminals (A–E) connected by shuttle buses and walking pathways. If you need to go between terminals: “Which shuttle goes to Terminal B?” or “How do I get to Terminal E?” If you’re short on time, say “I have a tight connection” and ask staff for the fastest route.
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Ground transport: taxis, Uber, Logan Express
When you leave Logan, you may take a taxi, Uber/Lyft, or Logan Express buses to nearby cities. Know how to tell a driver your destination, confirm fare expectations, and ask for a receipt.
Asking drivers questions, telling destination, asking fare
Simple lines:
You: “Hi, can you take me to [address or hotel name]?”
Driver: “Sure. Do you want the fastest route?”
You: “Yes, please. About how much will it be?”
Driver: “It depends on traffic. Around $[amount].”
You: “Thank you. Do you accept card?” — this avoids surprises.
For ride-share pickup: “Where is Uber pickup for Terminal A?” or “Where is the Blue Line / shuttle?” If you’re unsure how to get to downtown Boston, say “I’m going to Downtown Boston / Back Bay” and give the hotel name.
Safety and polite phrases to use in Boston airports
Politeness goes far. Say “please” and “thank you.” When asking for help: “Excuse me, can you help me?” (Вибачте, ви можете мені допомогти?) Use “Could you please repeat that?” (Ви могли б повторити?) if you didn’t hear. If someone asks you to move for boarding lines: “Sorry, I didn’t see the line. Thank you.” Small politeness keeps interactions smooth.
How to be polite yet clear (phrases and intonation)
Americans often appreciate directness wrapped in politeness. Use “Could I please…?” instead of “Can I…?” for extra politeness. Speak in a friendly tone, smile, and nod — this helps even when your English is imperfect. If you need extra time, say “Could you please speak a bit slower?” (Чи могли б ви говорити трохи повільніше?) Officers and staff usually oblige.
Pronunciation guide and useful phonetics for top 20 airport phrases
Practice these important phrases with simple phonetic hints to sound clear:
- “May I see your passport?” — “May ay see yor PAS-port?” (Можна ваш паспорт?)
- “I’m here for tourism / business.” — “I’m heer for TOOR-izm / BIZ-niss.” (Я тут з метою туризму / бізнесу.)
- “How long will you stay?” — “How long will yoo stay?” (На скільки ви тут?)
- “Do you have anything to declare?” — “Do yoo hav EN-ee-thing tuh dee-KLAIR?” (Чи маєте щось для декларування?)
- “I have a connecting flight.” — “I have uh kuh-NEK-ting flyt.” (Маю пересадку.)
- “My luggage did not arrive.” — “My LUG-ij did not uh-RYV.” (Мій багаж не прийшов.)
- “Where is baggage claim?” — “Where iz BAG-ij klaym?” (Де отримання багажу?)
- “Excuse me, I need help.” — “Ex-KYOOZ mee, I need help.” (Вибачте, мені потрібна допомога.)
- “Can you repeat that, please?” — “Kan yoo ree-PEET that, pleez?” (Можете повторити, будь ласка?)
- “I’m traveling with my family.” — “I’m TRAV-uh-ling with my FAM-uh-lee.” (Я подорожую з родиною.)
Repeat these lines aloud several times to build confidence. Native speakers at the airport will understand you if you speak slowly and clearly.
Compact glossary (Ukrainian explanations where helpful)
This short glossary helps you translate key airport words:
- Passport — паспорт
- Boarding pass — посадковий талон
- Gate — вихід на посадку
- Terminal — термінал
- Baggage claim — отримання багажу
- Checked bag — зареєстрований багаж
- Carry-on — ручна поклажа
- Customs — митниця
- Immigration / CBP — імміграція / служба митного та прикордонного контролю
- TSA (Transportation Security Administration) — авіаційна служба безпеки (TSA)
- Connecting flight — пересадковий рейс
- Lost and found — бюро знайдених речей
Keep this list on your phone for quick reference.
Practice plan: short Zoom sessions that work
You’ll learn faster with short, focused practice. Book a 20–30 minute Zoom session to role-play one or two scenarios: check-in, immigration, or baggage claim. Tell your tutor which specific lines from this guide you want to practice and ask them to simulate an agent speaking quickly so you can practice listening. Repeat the role-play until you can say your lines naturally and confidently.
What to rehearse in a Zoom session
In each session, rehearse the exact words you’ll use: present your passport, answer the immigration officer, declare items. Request the tutor to correct pronunciation and give alternative phrasings. Practice responses for tight connections and lost luggage — two high-stress situations where quick English helps most.
Realistic scenarios: tight connections, secondary inspection, lost luggage
We’ll cover three common stressful situations with scripts and tips so you know what to expect and say.
Scenario 1 — Tight connection at Logan
You’ve landed but your next flight departs soon.
You: “I have a tight connection to [final city]. My gate is [gate number]. Can you help me?”
Agent: “How much time do you have?”
You: “Forty minutes.”
Agent: “Go to security fast lane; we’ll hold the flight if possible.”
Tip: Ask staff immediately; sometimes airlines can hold a flight for passengers with connecting flights. If you have checked luggage, it may not make the connection.
Scenario 2 — Secondary inspection
You’re pulled aside for additional questions.
Officer: “Please come with me to secondary inspection.”
You: “Okay. Do you need to see my documents?”
Officer: “Yes, and answers to a few questions.”
You: “I understand. I’ll cooperate.”
Tip: Be patient; bring documentation, and answer calmly. Ask politely if you need a translator: “Could I have an interpreter, please?” (Чи можу я отримати перекладача?) CBP will provide options if necessary.
Scenario 3 — Lost luggage
You arrive but your bag doesn’t appear.
You: “Hello, my bag didn’t arrive. My tag number is [tag number].”
Agent: “We will open a trace. Where will you be staying?”
You: “At [hotel and address]. Please deliver it there.”
Agent: “Here is your reference number.”
Tip: Keep clothes and essentials in your carry-on. If you must buy essentials, save receipts for reimbursement.
Cultural tips for Boston airports
Bostonians are generally polite and helpful. Use “Excuse me” to get attention and “Thank you” to show appreciation. If you need to ask for directions, be brief and specific: “Where is Terminal C?” or “Which shuttle goes to the T?” Using local terms like “the T” (MBTA subway) helps when asking for public transit directions.
Final checklist for Logan arrival/departure
Before you leave for Logan, check these items:
- Passport, visa/ESTA, boarding pass — accessible.
- Phone charged and airline app downloaded.
- Address of where you will stay printed or saved.
- $20–$50 cash and credit card available.
- Luggage tag numbers recorded.
This small checklist saves time and stress at the airport.
How to use this guide on the day of travel
Print or screenshot the most important scripts you need: “Checking in,” “TSA,” and “Immigration.” Rehearse them on the trip to the airport so they feel natural. When you actually speak, pause and breathe between short phrases; officers expect concise answers and will not mind a friendly, clear reply.
Book a practice Zoom and get a free consult with Sofiia
If you want to practice your exact lines with a native-speaking Ukrainian tutor, book a short Zoom session. A native Ukrainian teacher will adjust the exact words you use so they sound natural to Americans and match what people say at Logan. DM Sofiia on Instagram @youdoyou.school for a free 15-minute consult and to arrange a practice session. In the session you can role-play real scenarios, correct pronunciation, and practice quick responses for tight connections or baggage problems.
Closing encouragement
You don’t need to speak perfect English to get through Logan smoothly — you just need a few clear phrases, the right documents, and some calm practice. Use the scripts above, rehearse with a tutor, and remember: staff are there to help you. With a little preparation, you’ll move through Boston Airport confidently and start your trip on a good note.