How early you can check-in in Air Canada varies on the method of check–in. The destination and the airport could be a deciding factor for the check-in and boarding process. Flight type also decides how long before Air Canada flight can you check-in.
The flights flown by the partner airlines do not have the same rules. So, confirm the timings after booking the flight. Start the process early to ensure there is time left for immigration and security checks. Printing a pass or any other formality can also take time.
Mobile Check-in begins 24 hours prior to the flight and Kiosks self check-ins can be completed before 12 hours. These are generalized timings based on the various modes of check-in. Other than this, there are specific hours detailed for each flight.
Passengers of Air Canada should reach at least 2 hours prior to the flight departure. Else, you can check-in online with Air Canada and arrive a bit later than offline process passengers. Come early only for the baggage and boarding.
Reach 90 minutes before the flight takes off and finish all the formalities, walk to the boarding gate 30 minutes before the flight schedule. The gates of boarding will be closed 15 minutes before flying.
United States: Air Canada flights covering regions of the United States start check-in two to three hours prior to the departure. It is due to the immigration and security checks that are additional procedural requirements when flying to and from the United States. Air Canada passengers boarding the Toronoto Pearson must reach 3 hours prior due to more security work required. Also, check what terminal does Air Canada use at Pearson to avoid time wastage and confusion.
After the check-in, Air Canada expects passengers to drop the baggage 60 minutes before and reach the gate for boarding 30 minutes before. The gates will close 15 minutes prior and no late comers will be allowed to board the plane.
Toronto (United States): Passengers of the Pearson Airport must wake up a bit more early as the time for check-in is 3 hours before the flight takes off. Baggage drop and boarding gate procedure must be completed 90 minutes before the departure.
Mexican and the Caribbean: These two international locations are extensively covered by the airline. If you are booking the flight with Air Canada Travel Voucher then you can buy a combo vacation pack for the Mexican and the Caribbean. Book the flight and wait for the planned date for flying. The policies are different due to involvement of more detailed security checks.
Passengers curious to know when Air Canada check-in opens can know about it by reading the details further. Arrive minimum 2-4 hours prior to the flight timings to finish the check-in and other travel formalities when going on an international trip. The baggage drop must be before 45 minutes. Finally, reach the boarding gate before 45 minutes as the gates will be closed 30 minutes prior to the flight departure timings. Now end your anxiety about when can I check in Air Canada and plan your schedule accordingly to reach the airport early.
When does check-in close for Air Canada varies for each country and the type of route flown by the Airline. Immigration process, security checks and lines also determine when you can check-in for an Air Canada flight.
Remember to reach at the earliest as per the guided timings in the above content. It will save you from the last minute chaos. If you are traveling during or after COVID, then there are chances that Air Canada does require a mask or any other travel documents for verification.
All this is regulated according to the local authorities of countries and states. Indeed, it is better to reach planned and on time. If the time is left after all the procedures, relax at the airport or in the Maple Leaf Lounge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
