Definition
Checking in online through the airline's website or app before you reach the airport. Indian airlines usually open it 48 hours before domestic flights, and most international flights open 24 hours ahead. You pick a seat, download the boarding pass and only queue at bag drop.
How it works on Indian airlines
Web check-in is free on Indian airlines. What can cost extra is choosing a particular seat: windows, aisles and extra-legroom rows are often paid, while free seats are assigned from whatever is left. Under a DGCA instruction, airlines must seat children up to 12 years with at least one parent or guardian on the same booking at no extra charge.
Once checked in, show the boarding pass on your phone with your ID at the terminal entry gate, or use DigiYatra on domestic flights.
Timings to know
- Domestic: web check-in usually opens 48 hours before departure and closes about an hour before. Bag drop counters typically close 45–60 minutes before departure, depending on the airline and airport.
- International: usually opens 24 hours before. Counters often close 60–75 minutes before departure.
- Document checks: on some international routes, web check-in is blocked or you still need a passport and visa check at the counter, so allow time.
An example
A Mumbai family of four is flying to Goa on a Saturday morning. They check in at 7 am on Thursday, exactly 48 hours ahead, and find four free seats close together. Had they waited until Friday night, the remaining free seats might have been middle seats scattered across the cabin. At the airport they skip the check-in queue and drop two bags at the bag drop counter.
Tips
- Check that the name and passport details in the boarding pass match your documents.
- Save boarding passes offline, or print them if your phone battery is unreliable.
- Checked in but not flying? Cancel before departure rather than becoming a no-show.