Knowing the latest check-in time for your flight is one of the most important steps before departure. Being aware of deadlines helps you avoid missing your flight, save time, and enjoy a smooth travel experience.
Trip.com is here to guide you with up-to-date check-in deadlines for both international and domestic flights from the Philippines, plus tips to make your journey hassle-free.
Flight Check-In: Latest Times You Should Know
Domestic Flights in the Philippines
- Most local flights require check-in 30 to 40 minutes before departure.
- Airport self-check-in counters usually close around this time.
- Avoid last-minute stress so you should arrive early and consider online check-in.
International Flights from the Philippines
- Recommended check-in is 1 to 1.5 hours before your flight.
- Arrive early for smooth immigration and security clearance.
Quick Guide: Latest Flight Check-In Times
Online Check-In
- Available 48 hours to 90 minutes before most flights.
- Pick your preferred seat and get your electronic boarding pass.
- Skip long airport lines and save time.
Airport Counter Check-In
- Counters usually close 60 minutes before departure for domestic and international flights.
- Some international routes (e.g., USA) may require earlier check-in.
Self-Check-In & Baggage Drop
- Self-service kiosks close 60 minutes before departure.
- If checking baggage, arrive at least 2 hours early for smooth drop-off and security checks.
Easy Boarding (e-Gate & Flight Token)
- Some airports allow facial recognition boarding for faster, contactless travel.
- Register in advance and breeze through security as early as 30 minutes before your flight.
Airline & Airport Check-In Policies
| 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 |
A Quick Comparison for Filipino Travelers Flying from the Philippines💺
| 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😍
- Many airlines allow baggage check-in up to 4 hours before your flight. Always finish drop-off at least 1 hour before takeoff to avoid missing 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.
- Know your airline rules that you should check your airline’s baggage allowance and cut-off times for checked luggage.
- Check baggage weight to avoid extra fees by weighing your bags at home or at self-service kiosks before check-in.
- Label your bags include your name, contact info, and destination on all checked luggage for easy recovery.
- Keep valuables, documents, and electronics in carry-on luggage to avoid delays or loss.
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.