Flying can be a source of stress, from trip preparation to luggage check-in to long security lines. It is wise to check if your flight is delayed or canceled before heading to the airport. United Airlines check in policy offers passengers the option to check their flight status online up to 24 hours before departure, helping them avoid unexpected stress like discovering a canceled or delayed flight upon arrival at the airport. Additionally, United Airlines has introduced various check-in options to meet the needs of its passengers.
What is United Airline check-in policy?
United Airlines offers various ways for passengers to check in, including using their website or mobile app, airport kiosks, and checking in at the airport counter in person.
- Passengers are advised to check in at least 24 hours before their scheduled departure time. However, this timeframe may vary for international flights or depending on the airport, so it is important to confirm the check-in time for your specific flight.
- Before heading to the airport, make sure you have all the important travel papers like your passport for international trips, a valid government ID, and any needed visas. Double-check that all your documents are current and still valid.
- If you have checked baggage, be mindful of United Airlines' baggage policies, including weight and size limits, as well as any associated fees.
- Plan to arrive at the airport with ample time to go through security screening. United Airlines generally suggests arriving at least 2 hours prior to domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.
- After check-in, you will get a boarding pass. If you checked in online, you will receive it electronically, or you can collect it at the airport if you checked in there. Make sure to keep your boarding pass handy as you will need it for security checks and boarding the plane.
United Airlines also provides check-in assistance at their ticket counters for travelers requiring additional support. Their helpful staff members are available to assist with the check-in process, answer queries, and provide necessary assistance.
United Airlines Check-in time limits With or Without Checked Bags
|
With checked bags |
Without checked bags |
International flights |
|
Check in at least 45 minutes before departure. |
Check in at least 30 minutes before departure. |
Check in at least 60 minutes before departure. |
How many methods are available for checking in with United Airlines?
United Airlines offers travelers various convenient options for checking in, catering to different preferences and travel situations. These methods are aimed at simplifying the check-in process, improving efficiency, and giving passengers flexibility.
Wеb chеck-in:
United Airlines check in online enables passengers to complete their check-in process conveniently from their homes or anywhere with internet access. This user-friendly digital platform is accessible via the official website and is tailored to simplify pre-flight procedures.
- Go to the United Airlines website.
- Provide your confirmation number or e-ticket number along with your last name.
- Pick your flight and select your seats.
- Either print your boarding pass or save it on your mobile device.
- If you have checked baggage, head to the baggage drop-off counter at the airport.
United Airlines Mobilе Chеck-In:
Through its Mobile Check-In feature, United Airlines brings the check-in process to the convenience of your smartphone. The dedicated mobile app offers an easy way to manage your journey, providing flexibility and real-time updates while you are on the move.
- Download the United Airlines mobile app for iOS or Android.
- Open the app and log in to your MileagePlus account (optional).
- Select your upcoming flight.
- Choose your seats (if they haven't already been assigned).
- Save your boarding pass to your mobile device's wallet or app.
- If you have checked baggage, proceed to the baggage drop-off counter at the airport.
United Airlines Airport Kiosk Chеck-In:
For those who prefer a more traditional United Airlines flight check in process, United Airlines offers self-service kiosks at various airports. These kiosks enable passengers to check in, select seats, and print boarding passes without requiring direct assistance.
- Find a United Airlines self-service kiosk at the airport.
- Use the touch screen and select "Check-In."
- Scan your boarding pass or input your confirmation number or e-ticket number along with your last name.
- Follow the prompts on the screen to choose your seats (if not already assigned) and print your boarding pass.
- If you have checked baggage, proceed to the baggage drop-off counter at the airport.
Alternative ways to check- in on a United Airlines Flight:
United Airlines Voice Check-In
Passengers have the option to check in over the phone by contacting United Airlines customer support. Simply dial the airline's customer service number and follow the automated menu prompts to select "check-in." Please note that this option is not available for group travel. However, you can still utilize voice check-in to specify the number of bags you wish to check and inquire about baggage allowance. Your boarding documents will then be sent to your registered email or can be retrieved from an airport kiosk.
United Airlines Auto Check-In
United Airlines' Online Check-in offers an auto check-in feature, allowing you to check in for the remaining part of your journey. This can be done either at airport kiosks or via smartphone if your next segment or return flight is within the 24-hour window. When opting for this feature, you'll be prompted to select your preferred method of receiving your boarding pass.
United Airlines Curbside Check-In
United Airlines provides curbside check-in services at several airports throughout the United States. To utilize this service, passengers are required to present their photo ID, flight reservation code, flight number, e-ticket number and destination details. Curbside check-in is available approximately 30 minutes to 4 hours prior to the scheduled departure time of the flight.
Eligibility to check in on a United Airlines online:
You are eligible to check in online on united.com if:
- The first flight on your itinerary is operated by United.
- Your itinerary includes a total of four flight segments or fewer.
- Traveling with a group of less than nine people.
- You have scanned your passport during previous travels with United.
- You can use the United app to scan your passport for check-in or use an airport kiosk.
Reservations are not currently eligible for online check-in on united.com if:
- Your reservation includes specific special service requests that require assistance from a United representative at the airport.
- The reservation is issued as a paper ticket.
- You are booked in Basic Economy, unless you indicate that you will be checking a bag.
United Airlines Flight Check-In Time:
Before you go to the airport for a United Airlines flight, it's important to review the minimum check-in times set by United. This can impact when you need to arrive or depart from the airport.
- If you don't have checked baggage, you need to check in at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
- When traveling with checked baggage, the check-in requirement is 45 minutes before the scheduled departure.
- For most international flights, regardless of checked baggage, you must check in at least 60 minutes before departure.
United Airlines Flight Check-in Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey:
- Boarding Pass: Keep your boarding pass handy, either on your mobile device or printed, to expedite the boarding process.
- Document Review: Ensure your travel documents, including passport, visa, and health certificate, are up to date before United Airlines flight check-in.
- Early Arrival: Arrive at the airport well in advance of departure time, particularly during peak travel periods, to account for any unforeseen delays and take advantage of all United Airlines check-in benefits.
- Early Check-in: It's advised to check in early, especially for international flights, to select preferred seats and avoid last-minute stress.
- Baggage Fees: If checking baggage, be aware of United Airlines' baggage allowance. Paying for checked baggage online during check-in can save time and money compared to airport fees.
- Security Screening: Familiarize yourself with Transportation Security Administration guidelines for smooth security screening post-check-in
FAQs About United Airlines Check-In
Q1. How to check in on the United app?
To check in using the United app, you need to install the United app. Then, choose the check-in option and input your confirmation or eTicket number along with your last name. Then, use your electronic boarding pass stored on your mobile device to board the flight. If you are traveling internationally, you also have the option to scan your passport using the app.
Q2. When can I check in for my United flight?
You can check in for your United flight 24 hours before departure. Ensure you have all required travel documents, such as your passport or visa, especially for international travel. If a destination mandates a visa, you can confirm its status through the Travel-Ready Center or by consulting with a United agent at the airport.
Q3. When does United check in open?
Even if you have already checked in online, you can still use the check-in opening times as a reference. Standard check-in typically opens at least 150 minutes before departure for short and haul flights, and 210 minutes before departure for long-haul flights.
Q4. How do I get my boarding pass for United?
You have the ability to retrieve boarding passes for United and United Express flights, as well as for flights with partner airlines, using our app. If you're logged in to your MileagePlus account, upon opening the app after completing check-in, you'll immediately have the option to view your boarding pass.
Q5. Is it better to check in online or at the airport?
If you are going on a short flight and just bringing a small bag with you, it is much quicker and better to check in online rather than at the airport. But if you have got big bags to check in, it's safer to do it the usual way at the airport for security reasons.
Q6. What happens if you don't check in 24 hours before your flight?
If you fail to check in, you won't get a boarding pass to board the plane, and your seat could be given away to someone on standby. Checking in also verifies your traveler information, such as your passport details and frequent flyer number.
Q7. Can I check my bags on the United app or united.com?
The fastest method to check your luggage is by prepaying for it. Utilize the United app or united.com to check your bags and drop them off at the designated bag drop area. Find out more about prepaid baggage. Alternatively, you can check your bags by printing bag tags at a kiosk and submitting them to a United ticket counter agent, or by using curbside skycap services where they are offered.
Q8. What is United Airlines Auto Check-in?
When checking in for the initial leg of your flight, eligible bookings offer the option for Auto Check-in for subsequent segments or return flights. If the next segment or return flight is within 24 hours, Auto Check-in takes care of check-in. You will specify your preferred boarding pass delivery method: email, mobile device, or printing at an airport kiosk.
