Online check-in: how it works
Many airlines offer online check-in via their website or mobile app.
It usually opens 24–48 hours before departure, depending on the airline.
Typical steps:
Go to the airline’s official check-in page.
Enter your booking reference (PNR) or ticket number and the passenger’s last name.
Confirm passenger details and, if available, select a seat.
Complete the check-in process.
Receive your boarding pass (by email, in the app, or as a downloadable file).
If you have checked baggage, you can usually proceed to a baggage drop counter at the airport.
If you travel with cabin baggage only, you may go directly to security control (subject to airport rules).
Please note that online check-in availability depends on the airline, route, fare type, and passenger profile. In some cases, online check-in may not be offered.
Online check-in links for popular airlines (India & UAE)
India
Air India — https://www.airindia.com/in/en/manage-booking/check-in.html
Air India Express — https://www.airindiaexpress.com/web-check-in
Vistara — https://www.airvistara.com/in/en/vistara-experience/on-ground/online-check-in
Akasa Air — https://www.akasaair.com/check-in
SpiceJet — https://www.spicejet.com/CheckIn.aspx
UAE / Middle East
Emirates — https://www.emirates.com/manage-your-booking/online-check-in/
Etihad Airways — https://www.etihad.com/en/manage/check-in
flydubai — https://www.flydubai.com/en/manage/check-in
Air Arabia — https://www.airarabia.com/en/online-check-in
Oman Air — https://www.omanair.com/om/en/check-in
How many times do I need to check in?
The number of times you need to check in depends on how your flights are booked.
Round-trip ticket issued as one booking
You need to check in separately for the outbound and inbound flights.Connecting flights issued on one ticket
One check-in is usually sufficient for the entire journey, unless the airline requires additional document verification.Flights issued as separate tickets or split bookings
You must check in separately for each flight, as each segment has its own booking reference and ticket number.
You can see how your flights are issued in your itinerary receipt by checking the booking reference (PNR) and ticket numbers for each segment.
Why online check-in may be unavailable
Online check-in is not always available for every booking. This depends on airline rules, route requirements, and passenger details.
Common reasons why online check-in may be unavailable include:
the airline requires document verification at the airport
visa or immigration checks are needed for the destination
special services were requested (for example, wheelchair assistance or pet transportation)
the booking includes an infant or other passenger categories requiring manual verification
the airline or airport does not support online check-in for the selected route
the booking is part of a self-transfer or split itinerary
a security or random check has been triggered by the airline
If online check-in is not available, you will need to check in at the airport counter. This does not mean there is a problem with your ticket.
Airport check-in: what to expect
For some flights, airport check-in is the only available option.
Typical process:
Arrive at the airport within the recommended time.
Go to the airline’s check-in counter or self-service kiosk (if available).
Present your passport or ID and booking details.
Drop off checked baggage, if applicable.
Receive a printed boarding pass with gate and boarding time.
Check-in counters usually open 2–4 hours before departure and close 40–60 minutes before the flight, depending on the airline and airport.
Some airlines, especially low-cost carriers, may charge an additional fee for airport check-in.
Airport check-in fees and boarding pass requirements
Some airlines, especially low-cost carriers, may charge an additional fee for airport check-in or for printing a boarding pass at the airport.
To avoid extra charges, we recommend completing online check-in in advance and either printing your boarding pass or saving it on your mobile device before arriving at the airport.
Please note that boarding pass requirements and accepted formats (digital or printed) depend on the airline and the departure airport.
Boarding the flight
To board your flight, make sure you have:
your boarding pass (printed or digital), and
a valid identification or travel document.
Recommended arrival times:
Domestic flights: at least 1.5 hours before departure
International flights: at least 3 hours before departure