Travelers expect the check in to be as convenient and hassle-free as possible, as it is the major step in boarding a flight. As one of the world’s leading airlines, United Airlines check in policy is seamless.
With affordable ticket prices, the carrier keeps you updated with adequate information on when to arrive at the departure gate and board your flight after using the flexibility of choosing different check in options.
Our complete guide will walk you through different check in options, ensuring you have everything you need for a hassle-free start to your adventurous journey.
What is the United Airlines Check In Policy All About?
United has different options to check in as per the needs of a traveler. Be it checking in from mobile, web, app, or at the airport, United has got the solution. The options are designed keeping customers in mind to be as smooth and feasible as possible.
Different Flight Requirements
Check-in options might be essential, but before that, knowing time is also imperative, which entirely depends upon the type of flight, which is the departure point, airport, flight type, and baggage.
1. Domestic Flights
All domestic airlines, other than those on the international itinerary, must follow a certain United Airlines check in baggage policyhave baggage.
- The minimum check in time is 30 minutes before the departure time.
- If your flights are from Baltimore, Aguadilla, San Juan, or Kahului, check in an hour before the scheduled departure.
- If your departure destination is Guam, check in at least 90 minutes prior.
2. International Flights
United Airlines check in for international flights has specific rules. It is advisable to check in at least 60 minutes before your departure. Regulations to follow:
- If you are departing from Manila, check in 90 minutes before.
- If the departure destinations are Honolulu, Dublin, Lima, Hawaii, or Peru, check in 75 minutes before to avoid any delays.
- For travelers from Micronesia or Marshall Islands included in the itinerary, check in 90 minutes before departure.
3. Codeshare Flights
Every United Airlines codeshare partner has different requirements as per United Airlines check in time. When checking in for a codeshare itinerary, a codeshare partner should operate the first flight.
For more information on departure timings, get in touch with Travels Airline.
Check In Options under United Airlines Check In Policy
For customers’ comfortable experience, United Airlines offers different options. What time does United Airlines check in open? Let’s get to know all in detail:
1. Mobile
Passengers with a booking on United can access this option right on their smartphones. Download the United app, available on iOS, Android, etc.
This is a convenient option as it takes a lesser time and an individual can easily check in 24 hours before the departure. After completion, travelers can show their passes on the phone or can also take a printout. Though it is a convenient option, it can only be used if:
- You get access to an electronic ticket, and the first flight is with United.
- Reservations can be accessed with an e-ticket number, confirmation number, or frequent flyer account.
- Your departure is from the airport, where mobile boarding cards are accepted.
- You are not a passenger with special abilities.
2. Web/Online
This option is mostly used by passengers because of its flexibility. United Airlines online check in can be done 24 hours before the departure and is available for every flight type.
The web check in allows you to check baggage, change flights, modify loyalty account numbers, and pay fees. Keep in mind that this option can be used if:
- You got the electronic ticket, and the first flight is with United.
- You may access booking with a confirmation code, e-ticket number, or frequent flyer account.
- You are not a special needs passenger (such as traveling with a pet, etc).
3. Kiosk
Passengers would need to activate self-service kiosks at the airport, which can be done either by swiping a mileage plus card, credit card, driving license, etc. Scan all the relevant documents by entering an e-ticket or confirmation number.
Kiosk doesn’t only offer you the option to check in but also to print boarding passes, upgrade seats, change flights, and go through the maps. However, if you face any difficulty while using a kiosk, take help from customer service available at the airport.
4. Voice
Passengers can check in through the phone by dialing customer service at United Airlines. All you need to do is dial the reservations department and say ‘check-in’ on the automated menu. However, group travelers might not be able to use this option.
This method can be used to check United Airlines baggage check-in allowance. The boarding documents will either be sent to your registered email or picked up at the airport kiosk.
5. Curbside
The option can be availed at different airports in the United States. You must provide your e-ticket number, photo ID, flight number, reservation code, destination, and flight number.
The curbside United Airlines check in time is anywhere between 30 minutes to 4 hours before departure.
Also Read: How to Check United Airlines Flight Status?
Arriving at the Airport: Know the Check In Timings
Before heading to the airport to board a flight, it is essential to check the United Airlines check in times requirements, as they will affect your departure and arrival at the airport.
- If baggage is not checked, check in at least 30 minutes before the departure.
- When traveling with checked baggage, check in 45 minutes before the departure.
- For various international flights, you must check in 60 minutes before the departure, whether your baggage is checked or not.
- For travel to/from Micronesia or Marshall Islands, check in 90 minutes before departure, whether baggage is checked or not.
Also Read: Where to Find the Best American Airlines Bookings Online?
Tips for a Better Check In Experience
Optimize your check-in experience with these helpful tips:
1. Advance Planning
Prepare for extended waiting times at U.S. airports, primarily during busy periods like evenings, mornings, and holidays. Allow yourself for these peak travel times.
2. Early Arrival
Arrive two hours before domestic and three hours before international flights for a smooth check-in experience.
3. Get all the Documents Verified
Pack your essential travel documents, such as a visa, passport, and any required health or entry documents.
4. Stay up-to-date
Monitor flight and flight status with the help of the United app, website, or email.
Wrapping up
Getting to know the United Airlines check in policy is vital for a smooth travel experience. Many options are available as per different needs. Ensure adhering to the timings to avoid any last-minute stress.
Are you in search of any other flight check-in policy? We’ve got you covered with our detailed guide on different policies.
- Delta Airlines check-in Policy
- American Airlines check-in Policy
For any further queries on booking your flight with United Airlines, contact Travels Airline for a seamless experience.
