United Airlines Adjusts Check-in Times for Domestic Flights

United Airlines is implementing a new check-in policy that requires travelers to arrive earlier for domestic flights, particularly those with only carry-on luggage. Starting June 3, the airline will enforce a check-in cutoff of 45 minutes before departure, aligning the policy with its existing requirement for passengers checking bags. This adjustment marks a 15-minute reduction from the current check-in deadline for those traveling without checked luggage.

A representative from United stated that this policy change aims to enhance consistency for passengers and aligns the airline's practices more closely with those of other carriers in the industry. The check-in process is essential for confirming flight bookings and facilitating the issuance of boarding passes, which can now be completed online at least 24 hours before departure.

As airlines work to ensure timely departures, many have tightened their check-in policies in response to increased travel demand following the COVID-19 pandemic. These measures are part of broader strategies aimed at maintaining operational efficiency.

Checking in is crucial not only for securing seat assignments but also for ensuring passenger names are processed at security checkpoints. While check-in cutoffs are generally more stringent for international flights--allowing time for passport checks and customs clearance--domestic policies are also evolving.

For example, Emirates Airlines, based in Dubai, requires passengers to complete online check-ins at least 90 minutes prior to departure. In contrast, Ryanair allows online check-ins up to two hours before a flight but charges a fee for airport check-ins within 40 minutes of departure. Below is a comparison of check-in deadlines for several U.S. airlines:

Effective June 3, United Airlines will require check-in at least 45 minutes before departure for most domestic flights. However, exceptions exist, such as flights from St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands and between Guam and Honolulu, where the cutoff is 90 minutes prior. For international flights, the requirement is one hour before takeoff, with some airports demanding check-in as early as 75 to 90 minutes.

Delta mandates a check-in time of 30 minutes for domestic flights without checked luggage and 45 minutes for those with bags. Internationally, the requirement is one hour, with variations depending on specific airport regulations.

American Airlines has set a 45-minute check-in deadline for domestic flights, while international travelers must check in at least 60 minutes before their flights. Certain airports may impose earlier requirements.

For Southwest Airlines, passengers with checked luggage must check in at least 45 minutes before departure. The airline stresses that late baggage checks may not guarantee transport on the same flight. Additionally, travelers need to be in the boarding area at least 10 minutes before takeoff to avoid cancellation of their reservation. International flights require check-in at least 60 minutes prior, with specific routes having earlier deadlines.

Passengers flying with Alaska Airlines must check in at least 50 minutes before domestic flights and at least 60 minutes for international journeys. Certain locations may require additional time for check-in.

As airlines continue to adapt their policies to meet the evolving landscape of air travel, passengers are encouraged to remain informed about their respective airline's check-in requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience.