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2017
13
March
Do I really need to physically check in at the airport for international flights?

Question:

Profile picture of Cassi

Cassi

Hey so I always thought for international flights you need to physically check in at the airport 3 hours prior to your flight. However technology has seriously changed since the last time I flew internationally so I'm just wondering how this online check in thing works? And exactly how long prior to my flight I need to be at the airport. I tried calling west jet to ask but apparently no one can hear me talking on my phone

Humans say...

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Trish

CHECKIN 24 hours before
Arrive at airport two hours before especially if you're checking a bag

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Jax

Yes, online check in opens 24 hrs before departure and works a treat, they know you're coming so when you arrive you just have to do bag drop from a kiosk.
Bag drop tends to close 60-90 min before departure so 2 hrs pre departure is still a good idea to get your bag on the plane and make sure you have time to clear security and maybe customs depending on where you go.

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Marc

2 hours is usually good , depends on the amount of people at customs also. It can be a lengthy process if both checking bags and customs are swamped( take note if you're going to a place where they have had security issues ex: Paris ,London etc..

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David

Are you traveling to the USA or a different country?
For USA travel, a min of 2 1/2 hours prior.
Mexico/Europe/Asia
2 hours is plenty.
For all flights International & uS, check in closed 60mins before departure. 45mins for domestic flights.
I work at the airport!

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Maggie

Set a reminder to check in on line 24 hrs before your flight. It's super easy and might save you time at the airport. The airlines have been very strict about cutoff times so give yourself plenty of time to get through security and arrive at your gate. Have a great trip!

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Kristina

Online check in opens 24hr prior to departure. At that time you are able to assign yourself a seat (free of charge minus upgrading to plus) and you can pay for any bag fees that may be set due to the fare you book. However if you are checking in a bag, you still must drop your bag off a minimum of 1 hour prior to departure even if you are already checked in for the flight. I would recommend being at the airport no later than 1.5hrs prior to departure but technically it is 1hr prior to departure at the latest!

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Wendy

Be at the airport minimum two hours before your international flight. You can check in on line 24 hrs prior but still need the two hours to get your bag checked in, security, customs and find your gate.

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Wendy

still the same.

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Renee

And if you plan on wanting a meal and your flying say london/Dublin etc make sure you’ve ordered your meal well before that 48 hour mark.

Profile picture of Cassi

Cassi

Thank you for all your help!


A.I. says...

AI Profile Pic

Online Check-In for International Flights: A Game-Changer

Flying internationally used to be a hassle, with passengers required to physically check in at the airport counter several hours before their flight's departure. However, thanks to technological advancements, the process has become much more streamlined and convenient with the introduction of online check-in.

How Online Check-In Works

Online check-in allows you to complete the check-in process from the comfort of your home or anywhere with an internet connection. Most airlines now offer this service through their website or mobile app. Here's how it typically works:

  1. Visit the airline's website or mobile app, usually 24 hours before your scheduled departure.
  2. Enter your booking reference or ticket number, along with your last name.
  3. Select your seat preferences (if not already assigned).
  4. Confirm your check-in and receive your boarding pass electronically, either on your mobile device or as a printable PDF.

By completing the check-in process online, you'll skip the long queues at the airport counter, saving you valuable time and hassle.

Arrival Time at the Airport

Even with online check-in, you still need to arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight's departure time. For international flights, most airlines recommend arriving at the airport between 2 and 3 hours before your scheduled departure time. This allows ample time for baggage drop-off (if applicable), security screening, and navigating to your departure gate.

It's important to note that the recommended arrival time may vary depending on the airline, airport, and destination. Always check your airline's specific guidelines, as well as any potential travel advisories or security measures in place at your departure and arrival airports.

Additional Tips

  • If you're unable to complete the online check-in process or have any issues, you can still check in at the airport counter.
  • Make sure to have your travel documents (passport, visa, etc.) readily available when you arrive at the airport.
  • If you're traveling with checked baggage, you'll need to drop it off at the designated baggage drop-off area after completing online check-in.
  • Arrive at the airport even earlier if you need special assistance or have any specific requirements.

By taking advantage of online check-in, your international travel experience can be much more efficient and stress-free. Just remember to follow your airline's guidelines and leave enough time to navigate the airport smoothly.









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