United Airlines Check-in Policy: Timings and Methods to Check-In
After booking a flight ticket, completing the check-in process becomes a huge task. However, if you have reserved your flight with United Airlines, then you don’t have to panic. The United Airlines Check-in policy allows you to check in in just quick steps.
Moreover, you can complete the check-in process in several ways. So, if you are curious to know more about what are those ways to check-in on a United Airlines flight, then you must read this guide till the end.
In this guide, we’ll discuss both online as well as offline options for check-in on United Airlines flights. Also, we’ll discuss the eligibility criteria for checking-in on flights of this airline.
Guidelines of United Airlines Check-in Policy
United Airlines always suggests that flyers adhere to specific check-in time requirements to ensure a smooth travel experience. However, it is essential to note that the requirements can vary depending on factors like flight type and the departure airport. Here are some of the general guidelines for United Airlines check-in timings:
- According to the United Airlines check-in policy, you can check in for your flights either through the mobile app or via the official website.
- United Airlines web check-in opens 24 hours before the departure of the flight. So, it is convenient and time-saving as flyers can check in online in just a few clicks.
- If you are someone who prefers to check in offline, then United Airlines also offers a check-in facility at the airport. You can use the kiosks available at most of the airports to check in offline. You can check in at the airport counter at least 2-3 hours before your flight departure.
- However, if you are traveling on an international flight, and your flight is departing from the United States, then you must arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the scheduled departure time. This provides additional time for the immigration process and security checks.
- In addition, you must consider the time that you’ll need for the security screening. The Transportation Security Administration always suggests you arrive at the security checkpoint well in advance of the flight’s departure.
- If you are traveling on a United Airlines flight, then always ensure that you have your government-issued ID and boarding pass ready with you.
- Furthermore, depending on the type of flight, United Airlines curbside check-in intervals differ from 4 hours to 30 minutes before the departure of the flight.
- So, you must complete the check-in process within the check-in deadline. Otherwise, United Airlines will terminate you for boarding the flight.
- Also, United Airlines will forfeit the whole ticket price if you fail to finish the check-in procedure by the deadline. Moreover, the boarding will also be handled as per the no-show policy.
What are the Ways to Check-in on United Airlines Flight?
United Airlines offers several ways to its passengers so that they can complete the check-in process with the option that suits them the best. So, here are all the ways explained through which travelers can check in and print their boarding passes.
Steps to Check-in Online on United Airlines Flight
United Airlines provides an web check-in option that permits you to check in for your flights from the comfort of your home or anywhere with an internet connection. The United Airlines check-in starts 24 hours before the flight departure time. To check-in online, follow the instructions mentioned below:
- Firstly, visit the official website of United Airlines.
- Next, navigate to the “Check-in” section.
- Next, enter the confirmation number, MileagePlus number, or credit card details to access your United flight reservation.
- After that, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the check-in process.
- After check-in, you can print your boarding passes or receive mobile boarding passes.
Eligibility Criteria for Online Check-in
United Airlines has set certain eligibility criteria for the passengers who opt for check-in online on United Airlines flights. Here are some of the key points related to the United Airlines check-in criteria:
- Travelers can check in online only if they hold a valid ticket.
- Also, they must have made their reservation via the online portal.
- Moreover, for web check-in, the flight must be operated by United Airlines.
- With an online check-in facility, passengers can scan their passports via the app.
- Additionally, passengers can check-in online on United Airlines flights if they have booked tickets for up to 9 flyers.
- Moreover, it includes the complete travel itinerary of four or fewer flights.
United Airlines Check-in via Mobile App
United Airlines has a mobile app that you can install on your tablets or mobile app. This app permits you to check in online, manage your flight reservation, receive real-time flight updates, and access other travel details as well. So, to check in online via the mobile app, follow the steps explained below:
- First, download the United Airlines mobile app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
- Next, log into your MileagePlus account or enter your confirmation details to access the account.
- After that, follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in procedure.
- Once the check-in procedure is complete, print your boarding passes.
Use the Airport Kiosk to check in
United Airlines provides the facility of self-service kiosks at many of the airports This facility not only allows the passengers to check in but they can also select seats and print their boarding passes as well. Moreover, you can check in at the airport or kiosk four hours before the flight departure based on fare category, flight types, and destination.
So, to check in at the airport, flyers can follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Firstly, locate the self-service kiosk of United Airlines should be located at the airport.
- After that, insert your credit card and enter your Mileage Plus number or confirmation number.
- Now, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the check-in process through the self-service kiosk machines.
- Once the check-in procedure is complete, print your boarding pass.
Note: If you select the check-in at the airport option, United Airlines will ask for additional charges, such as administration or service fees, along with the applicable charges.
Steps to Check-in at the Airport Counter United Airlines
Travelers who prefer personal assistance or have special requirements can select the check-in at the United Airlines airport counter. So, to check in at the airport counter, follow the given instructions given below:
- Begin the check-in process by visiting the United Airlines check-in counter at the airport.
- After that, provide your booking information to the airline’s executive.
- With the help of the details, the executive will complete the check-in process.
- Once the check-in process is complete, the representative will provide your boarding passes.
Passengers Eligible for United Airlines Offline Check-in
Flyers must fulfill the eligibility criteria of the United Airlines check-in facility if they want to check in through offline mode. Here are the points that every passenger must fulfill for check-in offline:
- Passengers with valid tickets can check in via offline mode.
- Also, flyers must ensure that they have made their flight reservation at the offline portal in order to check in offline.
- Moreover, offline check-in is available for both solo and group reservations.
- Travelers who request special services require authorization.
United Airlines Check-in Time Limits
United Airlines has set different time limits for you to check in and check your bags. Moreover, some airports have special time limits, which depend on the location. So, if you don’t meet the check-in time limits, then there is a chance that United Airlines will deny this service. Also, the airline might cancel your reservation, deny boarding, or refuse to check your baggage.
- According to the United Airlines check-in policy, if you don’ have checked baggage, then your can must check-in in at least 30 minutes before the departure of your flight.
- However, if you have checked baggage, then you should try to check in at least 45 minutes before the scheduled departure of your flight.
- Furthermore, if you are traveling internationally, then you need to check-in at least 30 minutes prior to the flight departure.
United Airlines Special Time Limits for Check-in
United Airlines has set special time limits for check-in depending on the location of the airport. So, here is the list of time limits for different airports situated in the United States:
| Airport | Check-in Time Limit |
| Aguadilla | With or without checked bags: 45 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| Baltimore | With or without checked bags: 45 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| Guam | With or without checked bags: 60 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| Honolulu | With checked bags: 45 minutesWithout checked bags: 30 minutesInternational flights: 75 minutes |
| Kahului, Maui | With or without checked bags: 45 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| Mammoth Lakes | With or without checked bags: 30 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| San Juan | With or without checked bags: 45 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
| St. Thomas | With or without checked bags: 90 minutesInternational flights: 90 minutes |
| Saipan | With or without checked bags: 90 minutesInternational flights: 90 minutes |
| Salt Lake City | With or without checked bags: 45 minutesInternational flights: 60 minutes |
Here is a list of check-in time limits for other airports:
| Airport Name | Check-in time limit |
| Accra | 90 minutes |
| Amsterdam | 75 minutes |
| Athens | 75 minutes |
| Chuuk | 90 minutes |
| Dubai | 75 minutes |
| Lagos | 90 minutes |
| Zurich | 75 minutes |
| Toronto | 90 minutes |
| Frankfurt | 75 minutes |
| Munich | 75 minutes |
| Paris | 75 minutes |
| Lagos | 90 minutes |
| Rome | 75 minutes |
| Tel Aviv | 90 minutes |
| Manila | 75 minutes |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How long before the United flight can I check in?
Ans. According to the United Airlines check-in policy, you can complete the check-in process in up to 24 hours. The minimum check-in timing for mobile check-in is similar as your departure airport. Generally, the check-in on United Airlines ends 60 minutes before the flight departure.
Q. How does check-in work at United?
Ans. As per United Airlines check-in policy, if you are eligible, then you can check-in online from the official website. To check-in, you need to enter your confirmation number and last name to log into your MileagePlus account. After that, just follow the on-screen prompts to complete the procedure.
Q. How early can you check in for a flight?
Ans. If you are traveling by air, then you can complete the check-in process 24 hours before the scheduled departure of your flight. Moreover, you can check in through multiple ways, such as via the official website, via self service kiosk, mobile app, etc.
Q. Do I need to print my boarding pass if I checked in online?
Ans. No, you don’t need to print your boarding pass if you have already checked in online. However, you must ensure that you have saved your boarding pass on your phone so that you can scan it while boarding the flight.
Q. Does United assign seats before check-in?
Ans. According to the United Airlines seat selection policy, the airline automatically assigns the seat to the passengers before they board the flight. Also, they can’t change their seat once the airline assigns them a seat. However, the advance seat selection is available for travelers to purchase during the flight reservation and up until the check-in opens.
Q. Can I go straight to security if I checked in online?
Ans. It depends on different situations. If you have additional baggage along with the hand luggage, then you must go to the baggage check. However, if you are just carrying the hand luggage, then you can go straight to the security checkpoint.
Q. What happens if you don’t check in 24 hours before your flight?
Ans. As per the flight change policy, if you don’t check in 24 hours before your flight, then you might lose your seat. Also, it can lead to flight delays and cancellations. Hence, you must ensure that you are checking-in on time in order to secure the seat on the flight.
Q. Why won’t United let me check in online?
Ans. The United Airlines check-in policy states that you are not eligible to check in on the official website if your booking contains special service requests and you need to see the airline executive at the airport. Moreover, you might not be able to check in online if you have booked a Basic Economy ticket unless you specify that you are checking a bag.
Q. What happens if you forget to print your boarding pass?
Ans. If you have forgotten to print your boarding pass, then it can lead to serious issues. If that’s the case, that you forgot to print the boarding pass, then the airline will not allow you to board the flight. Moreover, if you have lost your boarding, then you have to ask the gate agent to reprint your boarding pass.
Q. How do I get my boarding pass using the United app?
Ans. You can get your boarding pass using the United Airlines app in just a few steps. All you need to do is sign in to your MileagePlus account using your credentials. After that, follow the on-screen instructions, and you’ll see an option to view your boarding pass. Click on that option, and print your boarding pass online.
Q. Do you get all your boarding passes at once?
Ans. Yes, you’ll get all your boarding passes at once you check in for your first flight, whether you have checked in online or offline. However, for some international flights, the airline will instruct you to get your second boarding pass on your layover.
Q. What are the advantages of online check-in?
Ans. There are several advantages of online check-in, such as:
- You can avoid the long check-in queues at the airport.
- Also, you can print your boarding passes at home.
- Plus, you can select your seat assignment before anyone else.
Q. How does self-check-in work at the airport?
Ans. The process of check-in through the self-kiosks available at the airport is quick and simple. All you need to do is enter your credentials and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the process. Once the check-in procedure is complete, print your boarding pass.
Q. Do I need to print a boarding pass if I have it on my phone?
Ans. No, you don’t have to print a boarding pass if you already have it on your phone. You can use your mobile phone to scan your boarding pass at the time of boarding the flight.
Q. Do I really need to check in 3 hours before the flight?
Ans. Most of the airlines suggest to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before the flight departure in case of international flight. The reason why airline recommends the passengers to arrive at the airport 3 hours before the departure is international flights starts the boarding process early than the domestic ones.