December 9th 2024.
In today's world, online and mobile check-in have become the norm for travelers. But what happens if you prefer to check-in face to face? Recently, many people heading off on festive getaways found themselves in a state of chaos as the Ryanair app appeared to go down. A warning notice on the app stated that check-in was temporarily disabled due to essential maintenance on the website.
In response to the situation, Ryanair released a statement saying that their website and app were back online after a brief downtime in the early hours of the morning. However, even when the technical issues are resolved, online check-in doesn't always go smoothly. This is especially true when we forget to complete the process in the first place.
Gone are the days when checking in at the airport was the norm. Nowadays, many airlines offer the option to check-in on your phone or device, with some, like Ryanair, charging steep fees for those who don't. So, what are the rules for checking in at the airport? Let's take a look at everything you need to know.
According to EasyJet, online check-in is the recommended method, and it can be completed between 30 days and two hours before your flight. However, if you encounter any difficulties, you can always ask for assistance from the ground crew at the airport. Just make sure to complete the process before the bag drop closing time, as specified on their website.
On the other hand, Ryanair has a strict policy that requires passengers to check-in online and print or download their boarding pass. This must be done at least two hours before the flight's departure time. The only exception is if you have a Flexi Plus ticket, which allows for free airport check-in. Forgetting to check-in online can result in a hefty fee, with Ryanair charging £55 or £30 for printing your boarding pass at the airport.
Travel influencer Jordan Tually recently shared a "genius" hack for avoiding extra fees when choosing a seat on Ryanair. By "pretending" to buy the remaining middle seats, you can hold them for 10 minutes before checking in with your actual ticket. Metro's own lifestyle reporter, Lillie Rohan, put this hack to the test and found it to be successful in securing a window or aisle seat.
However, this hack may not work with all airlines. Metro's lifestyle assistant editor Jessica Lindsay tried it on Wizz Air, but the seats she reserved were still available when she went to check-in for her actual flight.
Like EasyJet, Wizz Air also recommends online check-in, which is available from 30 days to three hours before departure. However, if you prefer to check-in at the airport, you can do so for a fee of €13, either online or at the airport. Some airports, like Agadir Al Massira and Zaragoza, do not offer online check-in, so airport check-in is free.
Jet2 offers both online and airport check-in options for their flights, with no additional fees for either. They advise arriving at the airport in good time, as check-in desks close 40 minutes before departure. They also have a "Twilight Check-in" service for dropping off bags the evening before your flight.
TUI also allows for airport check-in, stating that if you choose not to check-in online or have trouble printing your boarding pass, you can do so at their check-in desk. Their standard check-in desks open at least two-and-a-half hours before departure for short and mid-haul flights, and at least three-and-a-half hours before for long-haul flights. Some routes and partner airlines may not accept mobile boarding passes, so make sure to check their website for more information.
British Airways offers multiple options for check-in, including online, via their app, or at the airport using your passport and booking reference. They have self-service kiosks at the airport, as well as check-in desks. This service is free of charge, and the airport check-in times vary depending on the airport. They also offer an Overnight Bag Drop service at select airports.
So, whether you prefer the convenience of online check-in or the traditional method of checking in at the airport, make sure to follow the guidelines and arrive in plenty of time. Happy travels!
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
