Originally Posted by
Blumie
No reason to be there by noon, but in the 12-12:30 timeframe probably is a good idea (and even 12:30-1 if the OP managed to check in and drop luggage before shopping, though obviously the OP needs a strategy for dealing with the purchases.)
I would expect the day the OP is traveling, the Friday before Christmas, to be extra busy, particularly with infrequent travelers. This can back up check in and security, even for people with priority status, hence why I would say plan on being at the airport by noon in the OP's situation, an international flight with checked bags.