How to Check In for a Flight Online

Check in for your flight online to save time at the airport and get your boarding pass before you arrive.

Steps

1
Open the airline website or mobile app
24 hours before your flight departure. Most airlines open online check in exactly 24 hours ahead.
2
Enter your confirmation number and last name
to pull up your booking. You can find the confirmation number in your booking email.
3
Select your seat
from the available options on the seat map. Windows, aisles, and exit rows are popular choices.
4
Add any checked bags
and pay the baggage fee during check in. This saves you time at the airport bag drop counter.
5
Download or print your boarding pass
when check in is complete. You can show the digital boarding pass on your phone at security.

Do I still need to go to the check in counter if I check in online?Show

You only need the counter if you have checked bags to drop off. Otherwise go straight to security with your boarding pass.

What happens if I miss the online check in window?Show

You can still check in at the airport kiosk or counter. Arrive early since airport check in lines can be long.

Can I check in online for someone else on my reservation?Show

Yes, you can check in everyone on the same reservation at once. Each person needs their own boarding pass.

Written by the HowToDoStuff.online editorial team. Last updated May 18, 2026.