You can check in for a British Airways flight up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure time. British Airways offers online check-in through their website and mobile app, allowing passengers to complete the process from the comfort of their home or anywhere with internet access. Starting 24 hours before the flight, you can log in using your booking reference and last name to confirm your flight details, select or change your seat, and print or download your boarding pass. This online check-in option is very convenient, especially for those traveling with carry-on luggage only, as it allows you to go straight to security and your boarding gate once you arrive at the airport. If you plan to check bags, you will still need to drop them off at the airport’s designated bag drop counters.

At the airport, British Airways also provides self-service kiosks for passengers who prefer to check in on-site. These kiosks usually open around three hours before departure and close approximately 45 minutes before the flight for European and domestic flights, and about 60 minutes before for long-haul international flights. The kiosks allow you to check in by entering your booking details, select or change your seat, print your boarding pass, and print baggage tags if you have checked luggage. After printing baggage tags, you proceed to the bag drop area to hand over your checked bags. Using these kiosks can help you avoid long lines at the check-in counters and speed up the process.

For passengers who require assistance, have special requests, or prefer to check in with an agent, British Airways operates staffed check-in counters. These counters usually open three hours before departure and close according to the same schedule as the bag drop counters. It is recommended to arrive early, especially if you have luggage to check or need additional support. Passengers traveling with infants, unaccompanied minors, or those requiring wheelchair assistance are advised to check in at the counters to receive personalized help from the staff.

It is important to arrive at the airport early enough to allow sufficient time for check-in, security screening, and boarding. British Airways recommends arriving at least two hours before domestic and European flights, and three hours before long-haul international flights. Boarding usually begins 45 minutes before departure, with gates closing about 15 minutes before the scheduled flight time. Arriving at the gate on time is essential to avoid missing your flight.

In summary, you can check in for British Airways flights starting 24 hours before departure through online or mobile check-in. At the airport, self-service kiosks and staffed counters open about three hours before the flight and close in line with airline and security deadlines. Planning ahead and arriving early will help make the check-in and boarding process smooth and stress-free. Whether you choose to check in online or at the airport, having your documents ready and knowing the check-in times will ensure a better travel experience with British Airways.