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Check In Your Way with British Airways

Avoid airport lines and manage your journey comfortably before your flight with British Airways’ online check-in service. You can check in for your flight up to 24 hours before departure—whether you're flying short-haul within the UK or long-haul internationally.

In just a few steps, you can choose your seat, purchase extra baggage, and receive a mobile or printable boarding pass, all from your phone or computer.

Where to Check In
You can complete your check-in using any of the following:

  • Official British Airways website: www.ba.com
  • BA mobile app (available for iOS and Android)
  • Self-service kiosks at selected airports (print passes, update info)

When to Check In

Flight Type Check-In Opens Check-In Closes
All BA Flights 24 hours prior 45 mins before (short-haul)
60 mins before (long-haul)

Pro Tip: For the smoothest airport experience, be sure to check in online, especially if you're traveling with only hand luggage.

Boarding Pass Delivery Options
Once checked in, choose how you'd like to receive your pass:

  • Digital boarding pass via the BA app
  • Save to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet
  • Print a PDF from home or at a kiosk
  • Have your pass emailed for backup or quick access

Note: Most British and global hubs accept mobile passes. For certain destinations, you may be asked to present a printed copy.

Baggage Details & ExtrasIncluded:

  • 1 cabin bag + 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag or handbag) with all fares

Extras:

  • Checked baggage is included with most fares—Basic fares may not include it
  • Need more? Add extra bags online during check-in at a cheaper rate versus airport fees

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. When does British Airways online check-in open?

A. BA check-in opens 24 hours before scheduled departure—valid for all routes, including both domestic and international flights.

Q. Can I check in others traveling with me?

A. Yes, if everyone is on the same booking, you can check in multiple passengers in one go.

Q. Can I pick or upgrade my seat during check-in?

A. You'll be able to view available seating and upgrade to Premium Economy or Business depending on your fare and availability.

Q. Are seats included with Basic fares?

A. Basic fares may have auto-assigned seats. You can still pay to select a specific seat during online check-in.

Q. Do I need to download my boarding pass?

A. Yes, it's strongly advised. Mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports, but printing a copy gives peace of mind.

Q. What if I lose or delete my boarding pass?

A. No worries. Log back into the app or website, head to your booking, and re-download or email the pass again.

Q. Will I still need to show documents at the airport?

A. Yes. For international travel, your passport and sometimes visa documents must be verified even after using online check-in.

Q. Can minors or unaccompanied children check in online?

A. No—unaccompanied minors must complete check-in with a guardian at the airport and provide all required paperwork.

Q. Is my mobile pass valid at all airports?

A. Most airports in the UK and abroad accept digital boarding passes. That said, some destinations may request a printed copy.

Q. Will using online check-in really save time?

A. Absolutely. Passengers without checked baggage can head straight to security after online check-in, making your airport experience much smoother.

Check In Now
Check-in is quick and simple. Go to:

www.ba.com/checkin
Or download the British Airways app from the App Store or Google Play.