What is the difference between checking in online and at the Airport?
  • 14 Jun, 2024
  • Travel tips
  • Travomint

What is the difference between checking in online and at the Airport?

Nowadays, airlines provide both online and Airport check-in options for travelers on simple journeys, depending on their conditions. Most Airlines introduced online check-in features on its offiical websites to make travelers' journeys hassle-free, and it is not allowed if they have reserved tickets at the last minute or are carrying heavy additional baggage. So, travelers who have reserved tickets at the last minute or are carrying additional overweight bags should visit the Airport for check-in before boarding the plane. Also, airport check-in is the best option if travelers are not in a hurry or do not know the correct online procedures.

Is it better to check in at the Airport or online?

If you cannot wait in the long queue at the Airport before boarding the plane, you can proceed with the online check-in. Also, the online check-in option is more convenient for short-haul trips when you carry only one personal item or handbag. This is because online check-in saves you valuable time and gives you enough moments to relax before the final trip. Further, during the online check-in, you can quickly get the soft copy of your boarding passes and select the seats from the available options. However, if you are traveling on long routes and carrying bulky bags, you must proceed with the classical check-in methods at the Airport.

Do I still need to check in at the Airport if I check in online?

You can go straight to the security departure lounge when you check in using the online process and get the boarding passes on your phone. Suppose you have already used online check-in, but your bags are unchecked till now, or you are carrying bulky bags; in such conditions, you must contact the Airport for additional check-in for your bags. Depending on the situation, you will be asked for a recheck-in even if you have already done the online check-in process. You must read the Airline's check-in policy from its official page for more information about it.

What is the benefit of online check-in at Airport?

Online check-in at the operational Airport provides several benefits to eligible passengers. If you are one of those looking for the online check-in process at the Airport, you must know all its benefits. Some of the merits of online check-in at the Airport are discussed below.

  • Minimize wait time: By using the online check-in, you can skip the long waiting line at the Airport.
  • Seat selections: With easier seat selection with more available choices, you can secure desired seats before overbooking using online check-in methods before the deadlines.
  • Boarding pass: Online check-in allows easy boarding passes before scheduled trips without contacting Airport counter executives.
  • Additional cost savings: Most Airlines now charge service fees when you try to check in at the Airport. So, for additional cost savings, go with the online check-in process.
  • Updates: If you go through online check-in, you will receive instant updates about any potential changes in the flight time or trip schedule.

What happens when you check-in online for a flight?

Whenever you go with online check-in for a flight as per the Airline's terms and conditions, you will quickly obtain the boarding pass on your registered email ID. Also, online check-in helps you avoid the waiting line at the Airport and provides sufficient time to relax your body before using the Airline's services. However, online check-in comes with some limitations, which you should know before traveling somewhere with the flights.

What is the airline check-in policy?

Check-in rules for each Airline will vary from one another depending on the routes. Though, you can refer to the instructions underneath for the airline check-in correct procedures.

  • Airlines allow online check-in only 24 hours to 60 minutes before the final departure.
  • Some Airlines also offer online check-in from 48 hours to 2 hours prior to plane take-off time.
  • Using the check-in process, you can easily obtain your boarding passes, select the desired unoccupied seats, or add additional bags.
  • Online check-ins are often free of cost for most Airlines, but not at the Airport.
  • Airlines also allow check-in through the phone, kiosk device, or Airport.
  • Check-in at the Airport will be accepted only 2 to 3 hours prior to original departure. Read more about check-in options for Philippine Airlines

Does Airline online check-in have any disadvantages?

Usually, online check-in has several advantages over Airport screening, but in some conditions, it has limitations. Using the online check-in process, you can select any vacant flight seats for free or with some charges. However, you cannot choose aisle or window exit seats on the Airlines, especially with online check-in, because Airlines/Airport staff will ensure you are fit for these emergency spacious seats as per the policy. Moreover, if your priority is aisle or window seats, you can reach the Airport 2 to 3 hours before final departure and request about it during check-in. Airport/Airlines representatives will check your health status and ensure you do not have pregnancy or medical issues to avail of the aisle/emergency exit seats.