If you are preparing to fly with United Airlines, it’s paramount to know that you need to get there with enough time to spare, as the United Airlines check in policy has just been updated.
According to the current modification in United Airlines' check-in policy, all domestic passengers are mandated to check in for their flights 45 minutes before the aircraft's departure. This change will take effect on June 3, 2025. Despite this, this comprehensive guide will help you understand all aspects related to the recent check-in guidelines for United Airlines, as well as the various options available for checking in, ensuring a smooth journey.
United Airlines establishes time boundaries for when travellers can check in and check their bags. However, some airports or aviation have specific time limits depending on location. Please note that if passengers don’t meet their check-in time limits, the airlines will do their best to find an alternative option. Notably, United Airlines has the privilege to deny passengers services, which may ultimately result in a United flight change, flight cancellation, denied boarding, or the option to check your bags.
| Check-In Condition | Check-In Time Limitations |
|---|---|
| With no checked bags | Passengers are advised to check in at least 30 minutes before departure. |
| With checked bags | Passengers are advised to check in at least 45 minutes prior to departure. |
| For international trips | According to the United Airlines check in for international flight guidelines, passengers are mandated to check in at least 60 minutes before departure. |
United Airlines allows travellers to check in early, such as 24 hours before their flight's departure time. There are different methods for checking in a passenger, including online via the official website or mobile application, or at the airport using a self-service kiosk or counters. Early check-in offers numerous benefits, including the ability to select preferred seats during the flight reservation, add checked baggage, and receive a boarding pass in advance.
Passengers can check in 24 hours before the flight's departure for their United flight reservations. Additionally, ensure you have the necessary documents, such as your passport or visa, when traveling internationally.
United Airlines provides passengers with different options for checking in as follows -
Follow the steps below to learn the seamless process for United online web check-in.
United mobile check-in is also available through the official application of United Airlines as follows -
The United flight check-in kiosk is located at the airport, where you can use it to check in for your flight. To do this, please visit the kiosk to print your bag tags. For a faster experience, you can prepay for your bag online and use the bag drop shortcut to drop it off.
United Airlines voice check-in allows passengers to quickly and easily check in for their United flight via phone call if they don’t have internet access. The voice check-in method is available to passengers travelling within the United States and Canada with fewer than ten other people. To obtain this option, simply dial the United Airlines number, 1-800-864-8331, and select “check-in” during the automated menu.
The following conditions allow passengers to use United online web check-in -
According to United Airlines, if the passenger's itinerary qualifies, when they check in for the first segment of their flight, they can select Auto check-in for the remaining segments or return flights.
If a passenger’s return flight is within 24 hours window, Auto check-in will automatically take the necessary steps to check them in for their flight. When selecting this feature, a passenger must choose how they prefer to receive their boarding pass, such as by email, mobile device, or printing at a self-service airport kiosk.
To add check in baggage United Airlines, passengers may follow the steps mentioned below-
To use this method, you must visit the official United Airlines website or use their app. Under the "My Trips" option, enter your confirmation number and other relevant details to access your booking. Choose “prepay bags,” choose your baggage options, and complete the payment process. If you decide to prepay at least 24 hours before departure, you can save USD 5 per bag.
If you did not choose to prepay, you can add checked baggage during the United Airlines online check-in process, which opens 24 hours before your flight's departure.
Passengers may add check-in baggage to their United Airlines flight at the airport. As soon as you arrive at the airport, you can print your bag tags at a self-service kiosk and attach them to your bags. At last, drop them at the designated counter. If you require special assistance at the airport, such as a wheelchair, United offers dedicated services. Learn more about United Airlines wheelchair assistance services
United Airlines check-in is a straightforward process with several convenient options available. Passengers may use the official website or mobile app to check in starting 24 hours before the flight's departure. Alternatively, you can check in using the self-service kiosks at the airport. To avoid last-minute issues and understand your rights in case of changes, it's important to be aware of the United Airlines cancellation policy after 24 hours. For domestic flights, check-in must be completed at least 35 minutes before departure, and 60 minutes for international flights.
Note: This page provides travelers with reliable and up-to-date details about United Airlines' check-in process, based on information from official sources. While we aim to simplify your experience, we are not affiliated with United Airlines and cannot be held responsible for their operational decisions. For corrections to passenger names before check-in, refer to our guide on the Ua name correction policy.
Reviewed: July 2025
john landry
I tried to complete my United Airlines check-in through the mobile app, but it kept showing an error saying my reservation couldn’t be found. I was within the 24-hour window, so I’m not sure why it failed. What can I do to complete the UA Airlines check-in successfully and avoid missing my flight?
Admin
If your UA Airlines check-in isn’t working in the app, you should double-check your booking details (confirmation number and last name) whether correct or not. If the issue persists, try checking in via the United Airlines website or visit the airport kiosk early to avoid delays.