The planning of a trip can be stressful, especially when travelers must adhere to various check in deadlines set by different airlines. Missing these deadlines can lead to missed flights, wasted time, and additional costs.
As airlines worldwide have unique check-in deadlines, keeping track of each can be a challenge. Even experienced travelers can find it overwhelming to manage these deadlines, which can differ based on factors like the airline, destination, and departure airport.
When these deadlines aren’t met, you may be denied boarding, missed connections, and a cascade of travel complications that can ruin a trip.
To alleviate this stress and prevent travel mishaps, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on “Check-In Deadlines.”
This guide provides an easy-to-understand overview of airlines’ check-in deadlines, allowing travelers to plan accordingly and ensure a smooth travel experience. With this information at your fingertips, you can confidently navigate the check-in process, minimize delays, and focus on enjoying your journey.
Check In Deadlines for Different Airlines
Check-in deadlines for different airlines are as follows.
Air Canada Check In Deadlines
The check-in deadlines for Air Canada are listed below. Nevertheless, verifying with your airline for the latest updates before you embark on your journey is recommended.
| Itinerary | When to arrive at the airport | Check-in & baggage drop off deadline | Boarding gate deadline | Boarding gate closes |
| Within Canada | 120 minutes | 45 minutes | 30 minutes | 15 minutes |
| To/from the U.S. | 120 minutes From Toronto & Montréal 180 minutes (3 hours) | 60 minutes From Toronto 90 minutes | 30 minutes | 15 minutes |
| International (including Mexico and the Caribbean) | 180 minutes From international airports: 240 minutes | 60 minutes From Toronto 90 minutes | 45 minutes | 30 minutes |
Porter Airlines Check In Deadlines
Below are the check-in deadlines for Porter Airlines. Confirm these timings with your airline before traveling for the most accurate information.
Domestic Flight Check in Canada
| Airport | Check-ln/Baggage Drop-Off Closes | Boarding Starts | Boarding Gate Closing Time |
| Toronto City Airport | 20 min | 20 min | 10 min |
| Toronto Pearson International Airport | 45 min | 30 min | 10 min |
| Other Airports | 30 min | 30 min | 10 min |
International Destinations
| Airport | Check-ln/Baggage Drop-Off Closes | Boarding Starts | Boarding Gate Closes |
| Toronto City Airport | 45 min | 20 min | 10 min |
| Toronto Pearson International Airport | 75 min | 30 min | 10 min |
| Other Airports | 75 min | 30 min | 10 min |
Westjet Check in Deadlines
The WestJet check-in policy are provided below. To ensure you have the most up-to-date and accurate information, we recommend contacting your airline before your travel.
| Itinerary | Airport arrival time | Baggage drop-off time | Check-in cut-off time | Boarding gate arrival time | Boarding cut-off time |
| Domestic | 120 min | 90 min | 45 min | 40 min | 10 min |
| United States | 150 min | 90 min | 60 min | 40 min | 10 min |
| International | 150 min | 90 min | 60 min | 40 min | 10 min |
Swoop Check In Deadlines
The following are the check-in deadlines for Swoop. We advise that you double-check with your airline for the latest updates and confirm the timings before your travel.
| Itinerary | Airport arrival time | Baggage drop-off time | Check-in | Boarding gate arrival time | Boarding cut-off time | Online Check-in opens |
| Domestic | 90 min | 45 min | 45 min | 45 min | 15 min | 24 hours before departure |
| International | 120 min | 60 min | 60 min | 45 min | 15 min | 24 Hours before departure |
Flair Airline Check In Deadlines
Please find below the check-in deadlines for Flair Airline. However, you should consult your airline for final confirmation before your travel.
| Itinerary | Baggage Drop counters open | When to arrive at the airport | Check-in deadline | Baggage drop off | Boarding gate deadline |
| Within Canada | 3 hrs | 3 hrs | 60 mins | 60 mins | 20 mins |
| To/from Mexico and US | 3 hrs | 3 hrs | 75 mins | 75 mins | 20 mins |
Air Transat Check In Deadlines
To ensure accuracy, travelers should confirm their airline’s check-in deadlines with their departure airport and destination before checking in.
| Itinerary | Self Service Kiosk: Open 8 hours / close 75 minutes | Self-Service Kiosk: Open 8 hours / close 75 minutes | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | check-inClosing | Baggage Drop off Closing |
| International Flights | All airports | 4 hours | 4 hours | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Domestic Flights | All airports | 4 hours | 4 hours | 45 minutes | 45 minutes |
| U.S | All airports | 4 hours | 4 hours | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| Europe | Paris | 4 hours | 4 hours | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
| South Destinations (Mexico, Latin America & the Caribbean) | Cancun Punta Cana Jamaica | 3 hours | 3 hours | 60 minutes | 60 minutes |
Sunwing Check In Deadlines
Check-in deadlines for Sunwing Airline can vary by departure airport and destination. For accuracy, travelers should confirm timings with their airline.
| Itinerary | check-in Opening | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | check-inClosing | Baggage Drop off Closing | Online Check-in opens | Online Check-in Close |
| Domestic | 3 hours | 3 hours | 60 min | 60 min | 24 hours | 60 min |
| International | 3 hours | 3 hours | 60 min | 60 min | 24 hours | 60 min |
Central Mountain Air Check In Deadlines
Below are the check-in deadlines for Central Mountain Airline, which can differ based on the departure airport and destination. It’s recommended that travelers verify the timings with their airline to ensure accuracy.
| Itinerary | check-inOpening | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | check-inClosing | Baggage Drop off Closing | Boarding Deadline |
| Domestic | 90 min | 90 min | 45 min | 45 min | 20 min |
Emirates Check In Deadlines
Here are the check-in deadlines for Emirates Airlines, which may vary depending on the departure airport and destination. It is advised that travelers check with their airline to confirm the timings.
| Itinerary | check-inOpening | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | Check-In Closing | 24 hours (Dubai) 12 hours (if flying to the US) | Online Check-Check-Inin close |
| Domestic | 3 hours | 24 hours (Dubai) 12 hours (if flying to US) | 60 min for Economy class 45 min for business class | 48 hours | 90 mins |
| International | 3 hours | 24 hours (Dubai) 12 hours (if flying to the US) | 60 min for Economy class 45 min for business class | 48 hours | 90 mins |
Lufthansa Check In Deadlines
The check-in deadlines for Lufthansa are provided below. We recommend verifying these timings with your airline for the most accurate information before your travel.
| Itinerary | Airport arrival time | Check-In Opening | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | Check-In Closing | Online Check-in open | Online Check-in close |
| Domestic | 2-3 hours | 2 hours | 2 hours | 45-60 min | 23 hours | 1 hour |
| International | 2-3 hours | 2 hours | 2 hours | 45-60 min | 23 hours | 1 hour |
Delta Airline Check In Deadlines
Here are the check-in deadlines for Delta Airlines. However, to avoid any last-minute surprises, we recommend checking with your airline for the most up-to-date information before you depart.
| Airport | Airport arrival time | Check-In Opening | Baggage Drop-Off Opening | Check-In Closing | Boarding deadline |
| U.S | 2 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 30 min | 15 min |
| International | 3 hours | 3 hours | 3 hours | 30 min | 15 min |
Disclaimer
The airlines may change the check-in deadlines provided in this guide at any time. We disclaim any liability for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions in the information provided and any actions taken.
Travelers should verify the most current check-in deadlines with their respective airline’s website or customer support before making any decisions or travel arrangements.
FAQ’S
Q. How early should I arrive at the airport for a domestic flight in Canada?
A. For domestic flights within Canada, it’s recommended to arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes before departure. Airlines like Air Canada and WestJet usually close check-in 45 minutes before the flight.
Q. What is the check-in deadline for international flights from Canada?
A. For most international flights from Canada, passengers should arrive 3 hours before departure. Check-in typically closes 60 minutes before takeoff for international routes.
Q. Can I check in online for flights within Canada?
A. Yes, online check-in is available for domestic and international flights with most Canadian airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet. It usually opens 24 hours before departure and closes 45–60 minutes prior.
Q. What happens if I miss the check-in deadline in Canada?
A. Missing the check-in deadline may result in denied boarding, especially for international flights. Airlines are strict about timing, so it’s best to arrive early and complete check-in before the deadline.
Q. Is baggage drop different from check-in time in Canada?
A. Yes, baggage drop has its own deadline. Even if you check in online, you must drop your bags before the airline’s cut-off time, usually 45–60 minutes before departure for domestic flights, and 1 hour or more for international flights.
John Edward is an avid airline enthusiast and passionate blogger dedicated to sharing his love for aviation with others. With extensive airline industry knowledge, John’s insightful blog posts cover various topics, from airline reviews and travel tips to industry news and updates. His engaging writing style and deep understanding of aviation make his blog a go-to resource for travelers and enthusiasts.
