You’d think that a guy that flys as much as I do would know this. But I honestly don’t have a clue.
How far in advance can you check in for an airline flight? I mean, check your luggage and get your boarding pass?
The furthest ahead I can remember checking in was about 4 hours. But that was before 9-11.
The reason I ask is, my wife and I are going to Myrtle Beach. Our flight leaves Thanksgiving morning:eek:.
Imagining the long lines we estimate we’ll have to get to the airport around 5a.m…
Would it be possible to just check in the night before? It sure would allow us to get extra sleep!
While attempting to catch a red eye flight out of San Diego last February, I was forced to arrive at the airport some 8 hours before my flight. I was not permitted to check in until (I think) about 2-3 hours before the flight. That included checking baggage, getting a boarding pass, all that. Now, I don’t know if that was an airline rule (Continental), airport rule, industry wide or what. So, I’d say it’d be best to call ahead.
For some reason 4 hours rings a bell too but I honestly don’t know for sure.
Depending on the airline, you can check in online up to 24 hours before your flight and print your boarding pass. Even if you’re checking bags you can then just use the bag drop assuming your airline is setup for that.
You should go search/ask at the forums on flyertalk.com for a better answer.
