Online check-in: when it opens and how to do it

Online check-in saves time at the airport and lets you choose a seat in the cabin. Here is when it opens and closes, how to complete it without mistakes and what to do if something goes wrong.

When check-in opens and closes

The timing is set by the airline, but typical guides are:

• Online check-in opens 24-48 hours before departure (earlier with some carriers) and closes 1-3 hours before departure.
• The airport check-in desk opens about 2-3 hours before departure and closes 40-60 minutes before (earlier on international flights).
• Boarding starts 30-40 minutes before departure, and the gate closes 15-20 minutes before.

Low-cost carriers sometimes require online check-in and charge a fee for check-in at the airport. You will find the exact timing in your ticket and on the carrier's website.

How to check in online

1. Open the airline's website or app and find the "Check-in" or "Manage booking" section.
2. Enter your surname (in Latin letters, as in the ticket) and the booking reference (a 6-character code) or the e-ticket number.
3. Check the passengers' data: name, date of birth and document.
4. Choose a seat (free or paid, depending on the fare).
5. Add baggage if it is included or if you need extra.
6. Get the electronic boarding pass: save it on your phone or print it.

What you need for check-in

• An e-ticket or itinerary receipt: e-tickets explained.
• A passport (for international flights) or another identity document for domestic flights.
• A visa, if needed, and an entry permit.
• Paid baggage: checked baggage rules.

If online check-in is not available

The reasons vary: a codeshare flight, tickets with different carriers, a document check is needed or check-in has not opened yet. In these cases check in at the desk at the airport, arrive early and keep your documents ready. For flights with a connection find out whether boarding passes will be issued for both segments at once: flights with a layover.

Tips

• Check in as soon as it opens: good seats go fast.
• Download the boarding pass in advance: the internet at the airport is not always stable.
• Take a screenshot of the QR code in case there is no signal.
• Arrive at the airport with a margin even if you are checked in: baggage and security take time.
• If you are flying with a child, check the rules: flying with a child: rules.

You can pick tickets for the dates you need in the HotTrip flight search and on Aviasales.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours before the flight does online check-in open?

Usually 24-48 hours before departure, and it differs between airlines. The exact time is given in your ticket and on the carrier's website.

How long before the flight does check-in close?

Online, as a rule, 1-3 hours before departure, and the airport desk 40-60 minutes before. On international flights the desk closes earlier.

Do I need to print the boarding pass?

Most often not: an electronic pass in the app or a QR code on the phone screen is enough. But some airports and countries may require a paper copy.

What should I do if I cannot check in online?

Check that the surname and booking reference are entered correctly, try again later, contact the carrier's support or check in at the desk at the airport.

Cover: photo by Torsten Dettlaff on Pexels