When it comes to air travel, a smooth check-in process is essential for a stress-free journey. British Airways offers several convenient ways to check in, whether you’re flying domestically or internationally. In this article, we’ll explore British Airways web check-in policy, along with various other details that you need during your check-in.
British Airways Web Check-In Policy And Rules
Online Check-In
- You are allowed to check in online starting from 24 hours before your flight.
- Use the Manage My Booking feature on the British Airways website.
- Print, download, or email your boarding pass online.
- If you misplace your boarding pass, retrieve it at a check-in kiosk at the airport.
App Check-In
- Available from 24 hours before your flight departs.
- Download the British Airways app on your mobile, iPad, or Apple Watch.
- Download boarding passes for return and connecting flights.
- Up to eight people in the same booking can use one mobile device.
Airport Check-In
- Check-in at airport kiosks using your booking reference (PNR) or passport.
- If needed, visit a check-in desk for help and check in for your flight.
- Overnight Bag Drops are available at select airports for passengers to travel to the airport without carrying baggage (e.g., London Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh).
AirPortr Doorstep Check-In
- In select UK locations, AirPortr collects your baggage from your home, office, or hotel, checks it in, and lets you travel bag-free to the airport.
*Certain passengers are not eligible for online check-in: Unaccompanied minors or passengers with specific requirements are exceptions to British Airways web check-in policy, and they must visit the airport for check-in.
Check-In Times and Deadlines
Before you make your British Airways flight check in you must be aware of the check-in times and deadlines. Here, we have explained the check-in times every passenger needs to follow according to their travel destination-
Domestic Check-In Times
- London Heathrow: 60 minutes before long-haul flights and 45 minutes before short-haul flights.
- London Gatwick: 60 minutes before both long-haul and short-haul flights.
- London City: 30 minutes before all flights.
- Other UK Airports: 45 minutes before all flights.
- Short-Haul European Airports: 45 minutes before all flights (exceptions apply).
- Long-Haul International Airports: At least 60 minutes before departure (some destinations close 90 minutes before).
- Hand Baggage Only: If you do not have British Airways checked-in baggage and carry only hand baggage, you can directly proceed to the security area with your boarding pass, proceed directly to security.
International Check-In Times
- Long-Haul International Airports: At least 60 minutes before departure.
- Specific Destinations: Some destinations (e.g., Ghana) close 90 minutes before departure.
- Passport and Visa Check: Intercontinental flights from London Heathrow Terminal 3 or Terminal 5 require passport and visa verification before security.
How to Check-In for British Airways Flights
Checking in for your British Airways flight is a straightforward process that ensures a smooth start to your journey. Whether you prefer online convenience or a traditional counter check-in, British Airways offers various options to suit your needs.
Online Web Check-In
If you wish to make British Airways online check-in, the process is very easy and can be done at your fingertips. Here is the footpath you need to follow:
- Visit the British Airways website.
- Log in using your booking reference (PNR) and last name.
- Select your flight and choose the “Check in” option.
- Review your booking details, select your preferred seat (if available), and add any necessary baggage.
- Download, print, or email your boarding pass.
Online Mobile Check-In
Using the British Airways mobile app, you have the liberty to check in from anywhere you wish without having to follow up in long lines at the airport. Here are the steps:
- Download the British Airways app on your mobile device.
- Open the app within 24 hours of your flight departure for check-in.
- Enter your booking reference and last name.
- Save your boarding pass for use at the airport or print it.
- Select your seat and add baggage following the British Airways check-in bag size rules.
Ticket Counter Check-In
If you want to directly check in British Airways at the airport, you can follow the below-mentioned steps to do so:
- Arrive at the airport in advance.
- Visit the British Airways airport kiosks.
- Provide your booking reference (PNR) or passport details.
- The kiosk will print your boarding pass.
- If you need assistance, use the check-in desk.
AirPortr Doorstep Check-In
This service is available only in selected Airports in the UK, so passengers traveling from these airports can avail of the service by following these steps:
- Pay for the AirPortr service.
- Baggage will be collected securely from your home, office, or hotel.
- Your bags will be checked in for your flight.
- Arrive at the airport without your luggage.
- Skip the bag drop queues and proceed directly to security.
Summary:
British Airways provides flexible check-in options, from online and app check-in to airport kiosks. By using the British Airways web check-in policy you will be aware of the timings, deadline, and the process by which you will be able to check-in. Be aware that there are specific check-in times based on certain destinations you travel to. If you have any trouble, make sure to contact us via the number mentioned on our website.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1) Can I check in with only hand baggage?
Yes, if you’re traveling with hand baggage and already have your boarding pass, you can proceed directly to security. For intercontinental flights from London Heathrow Terminal 3 or Terminal 5, passport and visa checks are required before security.
2) What if I miss the check-in deadline?
If you miss the check-in deadline, you will be marked as a no-show and you will be denied boarding. Always check the specific closing times for your departure airport and flight type.
3) Can I check in for codeshare flights operated by other airlines?
Yes, you can check in for codeshare flights operated by partner airlines. Use the British Airways website or app to check-in, and you’ll receive boarding passes for all segments of your journey.
4) What’s the check-in process for infants and children?
Infants (under 2 years old) can be included in your online or app check-in. Children (2-11 years old) can also be checked in online, but they must be accompanied by an adult.