British Airways flight check-in
United Kingdom
Quick answer
British Airways online check-in opens 24 h before departure and closes 1 h before departure. Online check-in is free.
| Online check-in opens | 24 h before departure |
|---|---|
| Online check-in closes | 1 h before departure |
| Check-in fee | online check-in is free |
| Boarding pass | mobile boarding pass, print at home |
| Mobile app check-in | available |
| Self-service kiosks | available |
Times apply to most routes; long-haul, US and some airport-specific deadlines differ. Confirm on the official website before travelling.
How online check-in works
1
Open the airline website or app and enter your booking code and last name
Online check-in
Booking codeA1B2C3
Last nameSMITH
Continue
2
Pick a seat and confirm your travel details
Select your seat
Confirm
3
Download or print your boarding pass
Boarding pass
SMITH / JOHN14A
Online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight departure and closes 1 hour before takeoff. It is free for all passengers and available via the website and mobile app. Completing online check-in reduces airport queuing and is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel times.
- Visit www.britishairways.com or open the BA mobile app 24 hours before departure.
- Enter your booking reference and passenger surname.
- Confirm your flight details and select your seat (if not already assigned).
- Review and accept baggage and service terms.
- Print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device.
- If checking baggage, print baggage tags at the airport kiosk or dedicated bag-drop desk before handing bags over.
Tip: Printing baggage tags in advance at the kiosk avoids delays at bag-drop and is mandatory before handing over checked luggage.
Can I check in at the airport instead of online?
Yes, airport check-in counters are available, but online check-in is faster and available around the clock. Airport check-in has specific hour windows depending on your flight and airport.
Do I need to print my boarding pass?
No-you can use a mobile boarding pass saved on your phone or printed at home. For baggage, however, physical tags must be obtained at the airport kiosk or counter.