Self check-in at an airport means completing check-in without visiting a staffed airline counter. Passengers can complete check-in online through the airline’s website or app, or use a self-service check-in kiosk at the airport.
The time when web check-in opens depends on the airline and flight. At the airport, passengers can use self-service kiosks where available.
Why Is Self Check-in Important for Travellers?
If you’re travelling with only cabin baggage that meets the airline’s size and weight requirements, self check-in or web check-in can be convenient.
It helps passengers avoid queues at staffed check-in counters and makes the airport check-in process easier.
However, passengers travelling with checked baggage may still need to visit the airline’s check-in counter or designated baggage-drop facility.
Travellers should ensure that their cabin baggage meets the airline’s permitted size and weight limits.
Check-in Counter Closing Time
Check-in counters close before the scheduled departure of a flight. For example, the boarding pass shown below states:
“Check-in counters close 1 hour prior to scheduled departure for domestic and international flights.”
The closing time varies by airline, airport, and flight. Travellers should check the instructions applicable to their booking.
Self check-in can help passengers complete the check-in process earlier, but it does not remove the need to follow the airline’s baggage-drop and airport reporting requirements.
