Air Canada Check-In: Everything You Need to Know

Air Canada offers multiple check-in options to accommodate different traveler preferences and needs. Understanding these options can help streamline your pre-flight experience and ensure a smoother journey.

Online Check-In

Air Canada's online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before domestic flights or 2 hours before international flights. To check in online:

• Visit aircanada.com or use the Air Canada mobile app
• Enter your booking reference and last name
• Select your seats if not already chosen
• Download or print your boarding pass

Online check-in allows you to avoid lines at the airport and is available for most flights and destinations.

Mobile App Check-In

The Air Canada mobile app offers the same 24-hour advance check-in window with additional conveniences:

• Digital boarding passes stored directly on your phone
• Real-time flight updates and gate information
• Ability to change seats up until boarding time
• Baggage tracking capabilities

The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and works even without continuous internet access once your boarding pass is downloaded.

Airport Kiosk Check-In

Self-service kiosks are available at most airports serving Air Canada flights. At these kiosks, you can:

Print boarding passes and baggage tags

Select or change seats

Purchase upgrades when available

Add your Aeroplan number if forgotten during booking

Kiosks typically open 24 hours before departure for domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights.

Counter Check-In

Traditional counter service remains available with the following general opening times:

Domestic flights: 2 hours before departure

U.S. flights: 3 hours before departure

International flights: 3 hours before departure

Counter check-in is required for passengers with special needs, unaccompanied minors, or those traveling with pets in the cabin.

Check-In Time Requirements

For smooth travel, Air Canada recommends arriving at the airport:

Domestic flights: 90 minutes before departure

U.S. flights: 2 hours before departure

International flights: 3 hours before departure

Check-in counters close 45 minutes before departure for domestic and U.S. flights, and 60 minutes before international flights.

Required Documents

When checking in, have ready:

• Government-issued photo ID for domestic flights
• Valid passport and any required visas for international travel
• Booking reference number if checking in at kiosks or counters

Air Canada check-in options provide flexibility to suit different travel styles while ensuring you reach your destination smoothly and on time.

Conclusion:

Air Canada offers several convenient options for check-in to make your travel experience smoother. Passengers can check in online via the Air Canada website or mobile app, starting 24 hours before their flight. During online check-in, you can select seats, purchase additional baggage, and obtain your boarding pass.

For those preferring to check in at the airport, kiosks and staffed counters are available. It's recommended to arrive early, especially for international flights, to ensure sufficient time for security checks. Always verify the latest policies and procedures on the Air Canada website before your trip.

FAQs on Air Canada Check-In

1. How early can I check in for my Air Canada flight?

You can check in online or via the Air Canada mobile app starting 24 hours before your flight's scheduled departure time. For airport check-in, arrive at least 3 hours early for international flights and 1.5 hours for domestic flights.

2. Can I change my seat during the online check-in process?

Yes, during online check-in, you have the option to select or change your seat, subject to availability. If you want to upgrade your seat or choose a specific seat, it's best to do this during the check-in process.