What is online check-in and how does it work?
Online check-in allows you to check in for your flight via the airline's website or app before arriving at the airport, saving time at the airport.
How it works:
1. Go to the airline's website or open their app
2. Enter your booking reference and last name
3. Select your seat (free or paid depending on airline/fare)
4. Confirm check-in
5. Download or receive your boarding pass (PDF, Apple Wallet, Google Pay)
6. At the airport: go straight to bag drop (if checking bags) or security (if carry-on only)
When it opens: Most airlines open online check-in 24–48 hours before departure. Some open earlier:
• Delta: Up to 24 hours before
• American Airlines: Up to 24 hours before
• easyJet: Up to 30 days before (for seat selection)
• Ryanair: 2 hours to 2 days before
Note: Some routes require airport check-in regardless — particularly if you need a visa stamp or if travelling to the US, Canada, or Australia from certain countries.