[General] When is the boarding time? or What is the boarding time?

[withlove520]

Hi, I've seen the following question used as an example in an American English learning book for travelers:

When is the boarding time?

The context of the question is at the airport... At first, I didn't see any problem with the question at all. Until someone asked me: Should the question be "when is the boarding time" or "what is the boarding time" ?

He completely got me. I have no idea which one is the right question to ask... Or are they both correct? and how would the Americans normally ask the question in a situation like this?

Please help me out. I would really appreciate it!

 

[Matthew Wai]

I would use 'what', but I am not American. I am Chinese like you.

Not a teacher.

 

[SoothingDave]

I would say "what" as well, but "when" is not wrong.

 

[MikeNewYork]

They both work.

 

[Matthew Wai]

withlove520, clicking on the 'Thank' button can obviate the need for a new post saying 'Thanks', such is one of the many unwritten rules on this forum.

Not a teacher.