However, the Air Canada check-in policy is smooth but has different aspects for people traveling on domestic or international routes. Air Canada understands your comfort or what you must feel while in a panic situation when reaching the airport and processing all the formalities. Moreover, you can also call our helpline to get assistance regarding the Air Canada check-in.
How to Check in on Air Canada
You can check in for your flight before reaching the airport or at the Air Canada counter. However, per the Air Canada check-in policy, the check-in window opens 24 hours to 45 minutes before departure.
- The primary step is to visit the official website of Air Canada.
- From there, type the manage booking tool and choose the check-in option.
- Then, you must enter the information for the following process: the confirmation number, name, and departure airport name.
- Now, choose your flight from the list of trips on the screen.
- Select the flight and passenger name to check-in.
- Now, add your bags and pay the excess baggage fee if required.
- Also, you can even upgrade your seat if you want to.
- After the process, download or print the e-boarding pass.
On the Day of Travel
- Moreover, you can do web check-in directly and proceed with security checks when you do not have baggage.
- If you have baggage, go to the baggage counter, drop it off, and proceed for the security check.
At the Air Canada Counter
When you check in at the counter, you must reach the airport 4 hours before departure for domestic and international flights. Then, hand the baggage to the agent, and you will receive your boarding pass.
Moreover, you can check in for your Air Canada flight using the kiosk or curbside service. Your baggage must be under the standard allowance, or you must go to the counter.
Types of Check-in Policy on Air Canada
Further, Air Canada allows you to check in through the Manage Booking tool or at the airport counter. Thus, the check-in window opens online 24 hours before departure and closes up to 45 minutes before departure.
- Domestic Flights: Check-in closes 45 minutes before departure.
- International Flights: Check-in closes 90 minutes before departure.
Your ticket will be considered a no-show if you cannot board the flight within the given time and the check-in window closes.
Web Check-in on Air Canada
Air Canada Check-in Policy for International Flights
Air Canada opens its web check-in for international flights 24 hours up to 90 minutes before departure.
Domestic Flights
Air Canada opens web check-in for domestic flights 24 hours to 45 minutes before departure.
Curbside check-in Service
Air Canada also offers check-in services when you exit your car. You can find a curbside desk at many US and Canadian airports. The service helps you check in directly with your baggage. If the baggage is oversized, it has to be brought to the check-in counter for the extra baggage fee.
Kiosk Service for Check-in
The kiosks are like vending machines. You can enter your booking number, SkyMiles, or e-ticket number, and check-in will be completed. Later, you can print the boarding pass, choose seats, and add checked baggage.
Check-in with the Air Canada Mobile App
You can use the Air Canada mobile app to check in, even if you are traveling on a domestic or international route. You can also do online web check-in from 24 hours to up to 45 minutes before departure.
Time Frame to Check-in on Air Canada
| Within Canada | to/from the USA | International Routes | Airport counter | ||
| 240 minutes | 240 minutes | 240 minutes | Check-in opens | ||
| 45 minutes | 60 minutes | 90 minutes(from Toronto) | 60 minutes | 90 minutes(from Toronto) | Check-in closes |
| 30 minutes | 30 minutes | 45 minutes | Boarding gate deadline | ||
Important Note
- If your flight is before 9 a.m., you must reach the airport at least three hours before departure. This ensures you have enough time to complete the check-in and security process on time.
Different Types of Fare Types on Air Canada
Basic, Standard, Flex, and Comfort Fares
If you have a booking for any of these classes, you do not get a priority check-in, boarding, or security facility. However, you can check in using the official website, phone, or at the counter.
Latitude, Premium Economy, and Business Class
While having a ticket on these fares, Air Canada will provide you with an exclusive designated area to check-in, boarding, or security access. You can apply for check-in online, by phone, or at the counters.
Air Canada Earlybird Check-in Offer
However, Air Canada does not provide any specific early bird check-in offer, and you can check in as early as 24 hours before your scheduled departure. Thus, you can check in through the official website, by phone, or at the counter.
Will Air Canada Provide Web Check-in
Yes, Air Canada allows you to check in online for both International and domestic flights from 24 hours up to 45 minutes before departure through the official website and mobile app.
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I check on Air Canada?
If you must drop your baggage and check in at the airport counter, you must reach the airport at least four hours before departure.
When should I reach the airport for a domestic flight on Air Canada?
While traveling to domestic routes on Air Canada, you must reach the airport at least one hour before and complete check-in 45 minutes before departure. After 45 minutes, you will miss your flight if you don’t complete check-in.
What is the check-in process for to/from the USA on Air Canada?
If you are traveling to or from the USA on an Air Canada flight, you can check in online from the official website. Otherwise, if you check in at the counter, you must arrive at least four hours before departure and complete your check-in one hour before the scheduled time.
Can I use the kiosk service to check in on Air Canada?
Yes, the Air Canada check-in policy allows you to use the kiosk service to check in for your flight. You will receive your boarding pass, and then you can add your baggage and drop it at the counter.
When does the online check-in window open on Air Canada?
On Air Canada, you can check in through various means. One is web check-in, which starts 24 hours to 45 minutes after departure.
What are the benefits of checking Air Canada online?
When you check in online, you will save a lot of time. You can also choose seats and meals and upgrade your seat before reaching the airport. The online check-in window starts 24 hours before departure.
