Starting June 3, United Airlines will implement a new check-in policy requiring all domestic passengers—whether or not they check bags—to complete check-in at least 45 minutes before departure. The move, a change from the previous 30-minute cutoff for travelers without checked luggage, is aimed at streamlining operations during the peak summer travel season.
In a statement, United said the updated policy is designed to improve efficiency at airport gates. “The added time will help our agents assist those who make the cut with their luggage, seating, and arrangements,” the airline noted, according to Men’s Journal. Passengers who fail to meet the new 45-minute check-in requirement will not be allowed to board.
Until now, the 45-minute check-in window only applied to domestic travelers with checked bags. With the update, all domestic travelers—regardless of baggage status—will be subject to the same rule. The 60-minute check-in requirement for international flights remains unchanged.
The policy change coincides with a significant uptick in summer air travel. AAA reported that 3.61 million Americans traveled by air over the Memorial Day weekend, marking a 2% increase from last year and a 12% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Top domestic travel destinations during the holiday included Chicago, New York, Orlando, Denver, and Seattle, according to AAA. The agency also advised travelers to book flights on Tuesdays and return on Wednesdays to avoid peak prices.
