Are you flying with British Airways and want to know the check-in policy for a smoother journey? Whether you prefer online check-in, their mobile app, or kiosks, understanding the British Airways check in can reduce your stress level. British Airways offers flexible options to suit your needs. Knowing the process will help you get the best seats, skipping long queues, and get your boarding pass easily. Read this comprehensive guide given below and know about the check-in guidelines, check-in process, and guidelines for a hassle-free journey.
What is British Airways Check-in Policy?
British Airways makes it easy and convenient to check in for your flight.You must follow several guidelines while checking in. Here are the points you should know before taking the first step.
- You can check in 24 hours before the scheduled departure time by using the “Manage My Booking” option.
- Before proceeding through security for a long-haul flight departing from London Heathrow (Terminals 3 or 5), you are required to receive assistance to confirm your passport and visa documents.
- Make sure to have the right travel documents for the country you’re traveling to.
- You can take advantage of AirPortr Doorstep Check-in, only you have to book the service online and schedule a convenient time for baggage pickup from your home, office, or hotel.
- If you have your boarding pass from the app or website and need to check-in luggage, you can head directly to the baggage drop counter at the airport.
- When departing from London Heathrow Terminal 3, use the check-in kiosks to print your baggage tags, affix them to your luggage, and then proceed to the bag drop zone in the departures area.
- If you have separate bookings, such as from Edinburgh → London, → New York, you can collect and recheck your bags during the layover.
- For accessing the additional help regarding disability and mobility assistance, inform the airline at least 48 hours before the flight takes off.
What are the different check-in options available on British Airways?
BA offers multiple options for completing your check-in for a flight. You can choose any one of the given method below. Follow the steps and complete the check-in process.
British Airways Check-in Online
- Navigate to the official website of British Airways.
- Go the the “Check-in” option.
- Enter your booking reference and last name.
- Your booking details will be displayed on the screen.
- Choose your preferred check-in options and seats.
- Verify your information and finish the check-in procedure.
Note: Passengers traveling from airports such as Bergerac, Dubrovnik, Guernsey, Fuerteventura, Isle of Man, Kefalonia, Montpellier, Perugia, Pula, San Sebastian, Split, and Tirana can not complete web check-in for British Airways flights and have to do it at the airport,
BA Mobile App Check-in
- Download the British Airways official mobile app.
- British Airways will send a notification when your flight is open for check-in.
- Click on the “Check-in/Get boarding pass” button.
- Follow the on-screen prompts carefully.
- Once you’ve checked in, download your boarding pass.
British Airways Airport check in
- Reach at an airport kiosk to check-in.
- Use your booking reference or passport to access your booking.
- Print your boarding pass at the kiosk.
If needed, visit a check-in desk for assistance and head to the security after check-in.
What are the check-in deadlines on British Airways?
You have to receive your boarding pass before the check-in window closes, otherwise British Airways will not allow you to board the flight. Read the pointers below to know the checking in times on British Airways.
- Heathrow: Arrive 60 minutes before long-haul 45 minutes before short-haul flights.
- Gatwick: Arrive 60 minutes before both long-haul and short-haul flights.
- London City: You must check in 30 minutes before the flight’s departure.
- Other UK airports: 45 minutes before all flight departs.
- For flights heading to destinations such as Amsterdam, Amman, Antalya, Barcelona, Berlin (Brandenburg), Brussels, Cairo, Dalaman, Edinburgh, Florence, Frankfurt, Geneva, Ibiza, Istanbul, Sabiha Gökçen Airport in Istanbul, Lisbon, Madrid, Milan (Linate and Malpensa), Naples, and Nice, Palma de Mallorca, Paris, and Rome, it is recommended to arrive at least 1 hour before your departure time.
- For long haul international flights, reach at least 60 minutes before departure. For some destinations, like Ghana, arrive 90 minutes early.
Conclusion
Knowing the check-in procedure is essential for enjoying a hassle-free journey. Follow the instructions carefully and check in efficiently. Review the luggage requirements if you are taking checked baggage and spare extra time for connections and separate bookings.
If you’re still facing any issues in the check-in process, simply contact British Airways at the toll-free number. The representative will try their best to resolve your queries as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early can you check in with British Airways?
Online check-in is available starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure, and you can complete the process up to 1 hour before the flight leaves.
What happens if you don’t check in online 24 hours before your flight?
If you don’t check in for your flight online, 24 hours before the flight, this window will close and you may lose to get the option to select your preferred seats and may be charged fee for checking at the airport.
Does BA allow online check-in?
Yes, British Airways allows online check-in 24 hours before the scheduled departure time by visiting the official website or mobile app.
Does British Airways have self-check-in?
Yes, British Airways has a self-check-in option. Self-check-in kiosks are available at major airports, where you can complete the process and print your boarding pass.