Running fifteen minutes late isn’t the end of the world—unless you’re on the way to board a flight, that is.
Starting June 3, 2025, United Airlines Check-in for domestic flights will now be required at least 45 minutes prior to departure instead of the previous 30 minute guideline.
Both passengers with disabilities and those without are subject to the new rule. checked baggage. Online check-in is available for travelers who do not have to check their bags. boarding pass. For international flightsTravelers must check-in at least 60 minutes prior to departure.
United spokesperson: “The change will bring greater consistency to our customers, as it aligns with our current check-in deadline and the policies of most other airlines.” Condé Nast Traveler. The customer can view the time limits for domestic and international airports here “You can use the self-service kiosks in our lobby as required.”
This is a minor policy change, but passengers who miss the new check-in cutoff without knowing it may be denied boarding. United’s website states that if you do not meet the check-in deadline, they will try to find an alternative. We reserve the right, however, to refuse service. This may lead to cancellation of the reservation, refusal to board or the option of checking your bags.
The “airport theorem” is a social media trend that has gained traction. Nobody wants to waste time at an airport. What’s the genius idea? Arrive at the airport 20 minutes before the flight to avoid wasting time in the terminal.
This is a dangerous experiment, and we strongly advise against it. US airlines Close gates 15 mins before take-off. Arriving at the airport two hours before departure is recommended by all. domestic flights For international flights, you will need 3 hours.
Check out the cheat sheet below to see the check-in cutoff time for the major US airlines. Select US airports—like Honolulu (HNL) and Guam (GUM)—have special time limits for check in, so be sure to check your airline’s website to confirm the most up to date guidelines.
US airline check-in time limits
United
Check in your bags 45 minutes before departure
Check in without Bags: 45 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
Delta
Check in your bags 45 minutes before departure
Check in without Bags: 30 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
American Airlines
Check in your bags 45 minutes before departure
Check-in without bags 45 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
JetBlue
Check in your bags 40 minutes before departure
Check-in without bags 30 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
Southwest
Check-in with Bags 45 minutes before departure
Check-in without bags 10 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
Frontier
Check in your bags 60 minutes before departure
Check-in without bags 60 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure
Spirit
Check-in with Bags 45 minutes before departure
Check-in without bags 45 minutes before departure
Check in for international flight: 60 minutes before departure