British Airways offers its passengers a wide range of options to complete check-in, and these are designed to suit different travel needs. The check-in can be completed online, using the mobile app (or official website), and at the airport.
The process for check-in is very flexible and easy to navigate for beginners. By knowing the step-by-step instructions, deadlines, and essential check-in guidelines, you can avoid any hassles and enjoy a stress-free travel.
This guide explains various ways to check in with British Airways, including the mobile app, through the official website, airport kiosk, and premium services like AirPortr doorstep check-in.
If you’re flying from Los Angeles International Airport, you can check terminal details, check-in counters, and other airport-specific services on the British Airways at LAX Airport page.
What Are The Ways to Check In for a British Airways Flight?
Check the step-by-step instructions for all available British Airways check-in methods:
1. Online Check-In (Website)
The airline allows passengers to complete check-in through its official website up to 24 hours before departure.
- Go to Manage My Booking and enter your booking reference and last name.
- Select your flights and click on Check-in.
- Add your seat or baggage and then confirm your requests.
- You can download and print your boarding pass. You can also email your boarding pass.
2. App Check-In
The British Airways mobile app is one of the convenient methods to obtain a boarding pass for your flight. The app is available on iOS, Android, iPad, and Apple Watch. In addition:
- You can save a boarding pass directly to your mobile wallet. This will make things handy for you while screening at the airport.
- You can download the boarding pass for up to 8 passengers.
If you’re traveling with hand luggage, this is the fastest check-in method, as you will head straight to security.
3. Airport Kiosk and Counter Check-In
If you prefer in-person assistance or require special assistance at the airport, British Airways offers self-service kiosks and a dedicated check-in desk.
- These self-service kiosks will issue boarding passes and baggage tags. You may be asked to scan your passport or booking confirmation.
- Alternatively, airport check-in counters are equipped with staff who are available to help passengers with:
- Unaccompanied minor travel
- Wheelchair service
- Document screening for select destinations
- Traveling with pets
4. AirPortr Doorstep Check-In
A premium service is available with British Airways, offering door-to-airport baggage check-in.
- The options are available in areas around Heathrow, Gatwick, Geneva, Zurich, and Vienna.
- Your baggage will be collected from your home, office, or hotel.
- You would be provided with a boarding pass after you submit the bags from home.
This service is ideal for families and business travelers who are looking for a seamless airport experience.
Overnight Bag Drop Service by British Airways
British Airways offers overnight bag drop at select airports, allowing passengers to submit their checked bags and obtain a boarding pass on the eve of their scheduled departure.
| Airport / Terminal | Twilight Check-in Hours | Eligible Flights (Next Day) |
|---|---|---|
| Heathrow T3 | 16:00 – 21:30 | Departures before 10:00 |
| Heathrow T5 | 16:00 – 22:00 | Departures before 10:00 |
| Gatwick | 18:00 – 21:00 | Departures before 13:00 |
| London City | 16:00 – 20:30 | Departures before 10:00 |
| Edinburgh | 16:00 – 20:00 | Departures before 12:00 |
| Glasgow | 16:00 – 20:00 | Departures before 12:00 |
This check-in baggage drop service is ideal for passengers who have an early morning departure with British Airways.
What Are the Check-In Timings and Deadlines on British Airways?
British Airways check-in window opens 24 hours before departure. The deadline for check-in varies with the airports as well as the flight type. For instance:
At London Heathrow, the check-in for long-haul flights closes 60 minutes before departure. For short-haul flights, the deadline is 45 minutes.
At London Gatwick, the deadline for check-in for both long-haul and short-haul flights is 45 minutes before take-off.
Below is a table summarising the check-in deadlines for the following airports:
| Airport / Location | Flight Type / Scope | Check-in Closing Time Before Departure |
|---|---|---|
| London Heathrow | Long-haul Short-haul | 60 minutes 45 minutes |
| London Gatwick | Long-haul Short-haul | 60 minutes 60 minutes |
| London City | All flights | 30 minutes |
| Edinburgh | All flights | 60 minutes |
| Other UK airports | All flights | 45 minutes |
| European airports | General | 45 minutes |
| Amsterdam, Barcelona, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt, Madrid | All flights | 60 minutes |
| Long-haul international | General | 60 minutes |
| Ghana | All flights | 90 minutes |
Note: Missing the above-mentioned deadline may result in defined branding.
Conclusion
British Airways’ check-in process offers flexibility and convenience to passengers based on their preferences. The airline offers digital convenience, premium check-in options, and in-person boarding assistance at the airport.
For the fastest and convenient, use the British Airways online check-in or app check-in starting 24 hours before departure. If you have an early morning flight or are traveling in a group, you can opt for premium services like AirPortr and Overnight Bag Drop service.
FAQs
British Airways check-in opens 24 hours before your flight departs.
Yes, you can check in at the airport using self-service kiosks or at a check-in desk. Self-service kiosks help with baggage tags and boarding passes, while airport check-in can assist with special requests or excess baggage handling.
No, online check-in is optional, but it is highly encouraged to minimise time spent while boarding your flight. You can check in via the website or mobile app.
You can start checking in as early as 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
No, there is no fee for checking in via the website, mobile app, or airport kiosks. However, premium check-in options like AirPortr doorstep baggage check-in may incur an additional fee.
