One of the most important steps before your flight is knowing the latest time you can check in. Being aware of the exact check-in deadline not only helps you avoid missing your flight but also makes your travel experience much smoother. Trip.com is here to help by sharing the latest check-in deadlines for both international and domestic flights, along with useful tips. With this info, you’ll always know the best time to check in and start your journey stress-free and ready for adventure.
Flight Check-In: What’s the Latest Time?
Domestic Flights in the Philippines
For most local flights within the Philippines, you’ll need to check in 30 to 40 minutes before your flight takes off. For example, some airlines require you to finish checking in at least 40 minutes before departure. Keep in mind that airport self-check-in counters usually close around this time too, so don’t wait until the last minute!
International Flights from the Philippines
If you’re flying out of the Philippines on an international trip, the check-in deadline is usually earlier—around 1 to 1.5 hours before your flight. It’s always better to arrive early so you have enough time to clear immigration and security without stress.
Quick Guide: Latest Flight Check-In Times
Easy Boarding with Facial Recognition (e-Gate & Flight Token)
At some Philippine airports, you can register for “Easy Boarding” by scanning your travel documents and boarding pass at the self-service security gates. Once registered, you can use facial recognition to pass through automated boarding gates as early as 30 minutes before your flight—no need to show your boarding pass again! This lets you enjoy a faster, contactless, and hassle-free boarding experience.
Online Check-In
Most airlines flying out of the Philippines offer online check-in starting 48 hours up to 1.5 hours before your flight. This allows you to pick your preferred seat and get your electronic boarding pass ahead of time, helping you skip long lines at the airport.
Airport Counter Check-In
For flights departing from Philippine airports like NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) or Mactan-Cebu International Airport, counter check-in usually closes 60 minutes before departure. Some international flights, such as those to the US, may require earlier check-in, so it’s always best to check with your airline.
Self-Check-In & Baggage Drop
Self-check-in kiosks close around 60 minutes before your flight’s departure. If you have checked baggage, it’s recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight to allow enough time for baggage drop-off and security checks without rushing.
Check-In Policies by Airline and Airport
| Airlines / Airport | Check-In Rules & Deadlines |
|---|---|
Hong Kong Airlines | You can check in online on the Hong Kong Airlines website from 48 hours up to 2 hours before your flight . Seat selection and registration are available online. Airport counter check-in closes 40 minutes before departure . |
Cathay Pacific | Most flights require passengers to complete check-in at the airport counter 50 minutes before the scheduled departure . |
EVA Air | Passengers without an electronic boarding pass must check in at the counter at least 1 hour before departure . For special assistance passengers (e.g., wheelchair users), it’s recommended to check in 2 hours prior . |
Hong Kong International Airport | If you use self-service kiosks at Hong Kong International Airport or the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge Hong Kong Port, you must complete check-in within 90 minutes before your flight . Checked baggage must be dropped off at the counter at least 60 minutes before departure . |
For Filipino travelers flying from the Philippines, here’s how this compares:
| Airlines / Airport (Philippines) | Check-In Rules & Deadlines |
|---|---|
Philippine Airlines | Online check-in opens 48 hours before flight and closes 1.5 hours before departure . Airport counters close 45 minutes before takeoff . |
Cebu Pacific | Online check-in available from 7 days up to 2 hours before flight . Counter check-in closes 1 hour before departure . |
NAIA (Manila) | For domestic and international flights, counters usually close 60 minutes before departure . Arrive early during busy periods! |
Mactan-Cebu Airport | Check-in counters close 60 minutes before flight departure . Online check-in is encouraged to save time. |
Latest Time for Online Flight Check-In
Global Online Check-In Deadlines
Most major airlines allow passengers to check in online or via mobile apps starting 48 hours up to 90 minutes before their flight. For example:
- Cathay Pacific opens online check-in 48 hours before departure and closes it 60 minutes before the flight.
- Delta Air Lines recommends passengers arrive at the airport 3 hours before takeoff and complete both online and airport check-in at least 1 hour before departure.
Trip.com Auto Check-In Service
Before Booking:
- On the flight booking homepage, enter your departure location, destination, travel dates, and number of passengers. Click “Search” and choose your flight.
- On the booking page, fill in the passenger information and contact details, then click “Submit.”
- On the “Add-ons” page, check if “Priority Boarding” is available, then proceed to the next page to make your payment.
Please read the terms and conditions carefully before adding the check-in service.
Trip.com will automatically check you in 12 hours before departure and send the electronic boarding pass to you via email.
After Booking:
1. After ticket issuance, go to the flight booking order list, find the corresponding order, and open it.
2. Click “Check-in and Select Seat” to attempt online check-in.
Check-in on the Airline’s Official Website:
If you are unable to complete online check-in via Trip.com, you will need to visit the airline’s official website within the check-in time specified by the airline. Enter your airline booking reference and passenger name to proceed with check-in.
Airport Check-in:
Please print the e-ticket we sent you and carry it with you as a precaution.
For international flights, it is generally recommended to arrive at the airport 3 hours in advance. For domestic flights, please arrive 2 hours early.
To avoid changes due to flight schedule adjustments, please confirm the check-in time with the airline in advance.
Currently, Trip.com only supports online check-in for selected airlines.
Some airlines may charge for airport or online check-in services — please refer to the details shown in your order for specifics.
For most airlines (including low-cost carriers), international flights require a booking reference number to check in. You can find this under “Airline Booking Reference & E-ticket Number” below the order status section in your booking.
How to Check In
Most of the time, when you book a flight, you're issued an electronic ticket—so there's no need to confirm it again after it's been issued.
On your departure day, just head to the airport about 3 hours before your flight (especially for international trips). Go to your airline’s check-in counter with your ticket to start the process.
Here’s what the check-in process usually looks like:
👉 Pick up your boarding pass
👉 Check in your luggage
👉 Go through health and customs checks
👉 Pass immigration and security
👉 Wait at the gate for boarding
If you’re an international student, don’t forget to bring:
- Your student visa
- Your passport
- A student ID or admission letter
Recommended Time Allowance & Important Reminders
When to Arrive at the Airport:
- International Flights: We suggest getting to the airport at least 3 hours before your flight. This gives you enough time to get through customs, security checks, and drop off your luggage without rushing.
- Domestic Flights: Try to arrive 2 hours early—especially during busy holiday seasons—to avoid long lines and delays.
Baggage Check-in Tips:
- Some airlines let you check in your bags up to 4 hours before your flight.
- Just remember, you usually need to finish checking your luggage at least 1 hour before takeoff. If you’re late, they might not accept your bags.
Special Routes & Rules:
- Flights to and from France: Many airlines close check-in 75 minutes before departure, so don’t be late!
- Flights to and from Vietnam: Check-in typically closes 50 minutes before takeoff, but this can vary depending on the airport.