Air Canada·Star Alliance
Air Canada Check-in Times & Boarding Cutoffs
Air Canada Check-in Times & Boarding Cutoffs — Summary
When Air Canada check-in opens, airport and bag drop cutoffs for domestic and international flights, and how early the gate closes.
Key Travel Facts & Insights
- When online check-in opens: 24 hours before departure..
- Domestic airport cutoff: 45 minutes before departure within Canada..
- International airport cutoff: 60 minutes before departure..
- Bag drop deadline: 45 minutes domestic, 60 minutes international..
When online check-in opens
24 hours before departure.
Domestic airport cutoff
45 minutes before departure within Canada.
International airport cutoff
60 minutes before departure.
Bag drop deadline
45 minutes domestic, 60 minutes international.
Boarding and gate closure
Gates close 15 minutes before departure domestically and 20 minutes internationally. Allow extra time at Toronto Pearson for US preclearance, which can take an hour at peak.
Doing it in the app
aircanada.com and the Air Canada app handle changes, seats and refunds.
Air Canada check-in & boarding — common questions
When does Air Canada check-in open?
24 hours before departure.
How early do I need to be at the airport for Air Canada?
Domestic: 45 minutes before departure within Canada. International: 60 minutes before departure. Bags: 45 minutes domestic, 60 minutes international.
How long before departure does the Air Canada gate close?
Gates close 15 minutes before departure domestically and 20 minutes internationally. Allow extra time at Toronto Pearson for US preclearance, which can take an hour at peak.
More Air Canada help
Booking Air Canada? Talk to a US travel consultant.
Fare rules, baggage allowances and change policies differ by route and fare brand. Our consultants confirm the exact terms attached to your itinerary before you pay — and handle the change or refund if plans move.