For most international flights, 3 hours before departure is the safest default. That gives you time for parking or a shuttle, bag drop, check-in, security, and any passport or document checks without rushing.
The exact right time can still vary by airport, airline, season, and destination. Busy mornings, holidays, big airports, and flights that need extra document review can all eat up more time than you expect. If you are checking a bag or traveling during a peak period, build in even more buffer.
If you are the type who likes to cut things close, that is usually the wrong instinct for international travel. Arriving early is much cheaper than missing a flight.
Sources
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