You can check in for an Air France flight starting 30 hours before the scheduled departure time for most flights, providing ample opportunity to complete the process well in advance. For flights departing from the United States, the online check-in window opens 24 hours before departure. The easiest and most popular way to check in is online, either through the Air France website or mobile app. To do this, you enter your booking reference number along with your last name or log in using your Flying Blue account if you have one. During online check-in, you can confirm your flight details, select or change your seat if your fare permits, and add any additional services such as extra baggage or special meals. After completing check-in, you can download your boarding pass to your mobile device, print it at home, or receive it via email or SMS. Having your boarding pass in advance allows you to go straight to security at the airport if you are traveling only with carry-on luggage, which helps save time and avoid lines at check-in counters. If you need to check bags, you will have to visit the bag drop counter upon arrival at the airport. These counters usually open about two to three hours before departure and close around 40 to 60 minutes prior to the flight, depending on the airport and destination. It is important to arrive early enough to drop off your luggage, complete security screening, and reach your departure gate without rushing. At many airports, Air France also provides self-service kiosks where you can check in if you didn’t do so online, print your boarding pass, and print baggage tags for checked luggage. These kiosks typically open two to three hours before departure and close about one hour before the flight, giving passengers a flexible option for last-minute check-in needs. For those who prefer personal assistance or have special circumstances—such as traveling with pets, unaccompanied minors, or requiring wheelchair assistance—staffed check-in counters remain available. These counters generally open several hours before the flight and close between 40 and 60 minutes before departure, depending on the destination. It is essential to be aware of and respect these cut-off times because missing them may result in denied boarding. For example, domestic and European flights typically have a check-in deadline 40 minutes before departure, while international long-haul flights usually require check-in to be completed at least 60 minutes ahead. Passengers on codeshare flights operated by other airlines should confirm check-in procedures with the carrier operating their flight, as rules and times may differ. Air France advises passengers to arrive at the airport well ahead of their flight, especially for international journeys, to allow sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop, security, and immigration checks. It is recommended to arrive about three hours before international flights, and even earlier for flights to certain destinations requiring extra procedures. Once you have your boarding pass, whether obtained online, at a kiosk, or at the check-in counter, you proceed through security and make your way to the boarding gate. Boarding gates usually close 20 minutes before departure, so arriving at the gate well in advance is crucial to avoid being denied boarding. By following these steps and allowing enough time, your check-in experience with Air France will be smooth and stress-free, helping you start your journey with confidence and ease.