Starting June 3, United Airlines will enforce a stricter check-in deadline for domestic travelers. Passengers must now complete check-in at least 45 minutes before departure, or risk being denied boarding or checked baggage.
The change marks a 15-minute increase from the airline’s previous 30-minute check-in cutoff.
What’s new in the check-in rules?
According to United, the new policy aims to provide “greater consistency” and aligns with existing baggage deadlines and industry standards.
Here’s what’s changing:
- New deadline: Check-in must be completed 45 minutes before departure for all domestic flights.
- Applies to all travelers: The rule applies to passengers with or without checked bags.
- International flights: The 60-minute check-in requirement for international flights remains unchanged.
What happens if you’re late?
United says it will “do our best to find another option,” but warns that missing the cutoff could lead to:
- Denied boarding
- Canceled reservation
- Inability to check bags
The airline’s website states that staff may refuse service to travelers who don’t meet check-in deadlines.
Why the update now?
The updated rule comes as some travelers push the limits of arrival times. A trend known as “airport theory” recently circulated on TikTok, showing people arriving at the airport just 15 to 20 minutes before departure.
United is now encouraging travelers to:
- Check in 24 hours ahead using the United app, website, or airport kiosk
- Be at the gate 15 minutes before boarding
- Be onboard 15 minutes before departure
Other airlines making similar moves
Delta Airlines updated its own check-in policy in April. Delta now requires travelers checking bags for domestic flights to check in 45 minutes before departure—mirroring United’s new rule.
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