How early can you check in for a United flight?

United Airlines offers flexible check-in options, both online and at the airport, allowing travelers to choose what works best for their schedule. For most flights, online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes about 1 hour before the scheduled takeoff for domestic flights and 90 minutes before for international routes. You can check in via the United website, mobile app, or self-service kiosks at the airport. During online check-in, you can choose or change seats, update traveler information, and get a mobile or printable boarding pass.

For passengers with only carry-on luggage, online check-in is often the fastest and most convenient choice. You can skip the check-in counter entirely and head straight to the security checkpoint. If you have checked bags, you’ll still need to visit the bag drop area, which generally opens 3 hours before departure for international flights and 2 hours before for domestic ones. These times might vary slightly depending on the airport and destination, so it’s good to confirm with your specific airport if unsure.

At the airport, United recommends that travelers arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight, especially if you haven’t checked in yet or need to drop off bags. Airport check-in counters and kiosks typically open 2 to 3 hours before departure, and baggage drop-off usually closes 45 to 60 minutes before takeoff, depending on whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.

Gate arrival is another important point. United advises passengers to be at the gate no later than 30 minutes before domestic flights and 45 minutes before international flights. Boarding usually begins about 30 to 50 minutes prior to departure, and gates close 15 minutes before the scheduled time in most cases.

In summary, you can check in for a United Airlines flight online starting 24 hours before departure, and airport check-in generally begins 2 to 3 hours before takeoff. Arriving early and checking in as soon as the window opens will help ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience.