How Early Can You Check in For a Flight

Navigating the airport can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to flight check-in times. Understanding when to check in for your flight, whether it’s domestic or international, is crucial. It can help you avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth start to your journey.

In this guide, we’ll explore the specifics of flight check-in times. We’ll discuss how early you can check in for your flight, both online and at the airport. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional traveler, this article is for you. It will provide practical advice to help you plan your airport arrival and check-in process efficiently.

Understanding Flight Check-in Times

Flight check-in times can vary greatly depending on the airline and the destination of your flight. Most airlines allow passengers to check in online 24 hours before the flight’s departure. However, in-person airport check-in typically opens 2-3 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international flights.

It’s important to note that some airlines may charge additional fees for early check-in. Always check your airline’s specific check-in policy before heading to the airport to avoid any surprises.

Popular Airline Check-In Times

American Airlines

Domestic Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 45 minutes before departure.

International Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 90 minutes before departure.

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Delta Air Lines

Domestic Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 30 minutes before departure.

International Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 60 minutes before departure.

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United Airlines

Domestic Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 30 minutes before departure.

International Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 60 minutes before departure.

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Emirates

All Flights: Check-in opens 48 hours before and closes 90 minutes before departure.

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Qatar Airways

All Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 60 minutes before departure.

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Singapore Airlines

All Flights: Check-in opens 48 hours before and closes 40 minutes before departure.

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British Airways

All Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before and closes 60 minutes before departure.

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Lufthansa

All Flights: Check-in opens 23 hours before and closes 30 minutes (for domestic flights). Or 45 minutes (for international flights) before departure.

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Air France

All Flights: Check-in opens 30 hours before and closes 15 minutes (for domestic flights). Or 60 minutes (for international flights) before departure.

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Cathay Pacific

All Flights: Check-in opens 48 hours before and closes 50 minutes before departure.

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Etihad Airways

All Flights: Check-in opens 30 hours before. It closes 60 minutes ahead of your flight, or 45 minutes if you’re flying in Business or First Class.

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Virgin Atlantic

All Flights: Check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 60 minutes before. You can check-in at the self-service kiosk or at the check-in desk. 

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Ryanair

All Flights: Up to 60 days before departure if you’ve reserved a seat, or 24 hours before departure if you haven’t. You can also check-in at the airport 40 hours before departure, but it can cost extra if you check-in at the airport.

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Japan Airlines

All Flights: You can check-in to your flight 24 hours before departure. Check-in closes 60 minutes before international flights and 30 minutes before domestic flights.

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Air Canada

All Flights: You can check-in to your flight 24 hours before departure. You can also drop bags off 4 hours before departure. Check-in and bag drop closes 60 minutes before departure.

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Turkish Airlines

All Flights: You can check-in to your flight 24 hours to 90 minutes before departure online. You can check-in at the desk 12 hours before the flight. In person check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 before international. 

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KLM

All flights: You can check in any time from 30 hours before your flight’s departure (24 hours for flights to or from the United States). Check-in closes in person 40 minutes before European flights and 60 before intercontinental flights.

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Air New Zealand

All Flights check-in opens 24 hours before your flight’s departure. Check-in closes 30 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights.

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Thai Airways

All Flights: You can check-in 24 hours before departure up to 2 hours before via their airline app. For international airport check-ins they recommend arriving at least 3 hours before and 1 hour before domestic flights.

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Norwegian Air

All Flights: You can check in online for many of our flights from 48 hours before you fly. In person check-in opens 2 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before.

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Check-in Time Frames for Domestic Flights

For domestic flights, airport check-in usually opens 2-3 hours before departure.

This allows passengers enough time to check their luggage, pass through security, and reach their boarding gate.

However, during peak travel times, airports can be busier, so it’s advisable to arrive earlier.

Here are some general guidelines to follow:

• Check-in online 24 hours before departure
• Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before departure
• Be aware of cut-off times for baggage drop
• Confirm group check-in policies in advance

Check-in Time Frames for International Flights

International flights require more time for check-in, typically, airport check-in opens 3-4 hours before departure.

This extra time is necessary for additional security checks, including passport, visa and vaccination screening as needed. Here are some general guidelines for international flights:

• Check-in online 24 hours before departure
• Arrive at the airport 3-4 hours before departure
• Be aware of cut-off times for baggage drop
• Confirm visa and vaccination requirements in advance

The Benefits of Early Check-in

Checking in early for your flight can offer several benefits. Firstly, it can provide a better chance of securing preferred seating if you haven’t booked in advance. Secondly, it gives you peace of mind and extra time to navigate the airport, especially during peak travel times.

Using a TSA Lock To Speed Up Security

If checking-in a bag, ensure you use a TSA accepted lock. These are a type of lock accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for use on luggage. Their design allows TSA agents to open the lock using a specialist tool. Allowing them to inspect the contents of your luggage without damaging the lock or your belongings and to relock the bag once inspection is complete.

View our full article on understanding TSA locks.

Early Check-in vs Airport Check-in

Online Check-in: A Convenient Alternative

Online check-in is a time-saving option offered by most airlines. It typically opens 24 hours before a flight’s departure and allows passengers to skip long lines at the airport.

Moreover, mobile boarding passes are increasingly popular and environmentally friendly, making online check-in a convenient alternative. We’ve also provided check-in options for a range of the most popular airlines above.

Airport Check-in: What You Need to Know

Airport check-in usually opens 2-3 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3-4 hours for international flights. Passengers with checked baggage need to consider cut-off times for baggage drop.

Failure to check in within the airline’s deadline can result in a forfeited seat. So it’s crucial to be aware of your airline’s specific check-in policy.

Final Thoughts: Preparing for Your Flight

Checking in early for your flight can provide peace of mind. It gives you extra time to navigate the airport, ensuring a smooth start to your journey.