Checking In
To allow for check baggage and check-in time please arrive at least 1 hour prior to your scheduled flight! Check baggage systems shut off 45 minutes prior to the flight.
To help ensure that your trip goes smoothly, please allow enough time for checking in and passing through security. Additional time may be necessary when traveling around holidays or other peak travel times.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires enhanced security measures for all flights departing from non-U.S. locations to the United States. We recommend that you ensure that any liquids, aerosols or gels that are included in your carry-on bags adhere to current restrictions. Visit the TSA website for details regarding these security measures.
Payment transactions at airports
The United check-in counters and kiosks at some of the airports we serve do not accept cash as a form of payment. For more information, visit the Accepted Forms of Payment page.
Check-In Guidelines
The times below apply to flights operated by United and United Express®. For flights operated by another carrier, including our codeshare partners, the applicable check-in time limit for that carrier’s flight will apply.
For flights within the U.S., as well as most international flights, baggage will generally not be accepted for check-in more than four hours before scheduled flight departure, although this policy varies by airport and based on daily check-in counter hours.
United has the right to cancel reservations, deny boarding and refuse the acceptance of checked baggage of any customer who does not meet their applicable check-in time limit.
Check-in is available starting 24 hours prior to scheduled departure. Check in now.
Check-In and Boarding Requirements for Flights within the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands
For flights within the U.S., Guam, Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands, customers and their bags must meet the check-in and boarding requirements below. These requirements refer to the minimum amount of time before scheduled departure.
| Departure Airport | Check-in and baggage check completed | Available for boarding at the gate |
|---|---|---|
| All other airports within the U.S. and Puerto Rico | 30 minutes | 15 minutes |
Processing Times for Airports within the United States
As a result of heightened security measures, we suggest customers arrive at the airport early. Some local airport authorities have instituted additional measures beyond the mandatory security measures specified by the TSA. All vehicles approaching the airports are subject to search on the approaching roadways and within the traffic lanes at the terminals. This may add to your airport processing times, especially at major airports.
The metal detectors at most airports are very sensitive. To ensure a seamless security process, we suggest placing all metal items, including jewelry, in your carry-on luggage before arriving at the security checkpoint. In most cases, shoes should be removed and placed in the bins provided at the checkpoint.
If you are departing during peak traffic hours, the approximate processing time listed should provide you with enough time to make your flight. Especially heavy travel volumes on Sunday afternoons, Friday afternoons and Monday mornings may require an additional half hour.
Peak traffic hours at most airports are:
- 6:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.
- 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
- 3:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
**Information obtained from United’s website – www.united.com
FAA Pack Safe
This link provides details about hazardous materials that cannot be packed in carry-on or checked baggage and is part of national FAA HQ effort to solicit the help of airports in promoting this informational site. The site will change as trend analysis dictates to keep passenger up-to-date with the latest risks associated with hazardous materials.