United Airlines·Star Alliance
United Check-in Times & Boarding Cutoffs
United Check-in Times & Boarding Cutoffs — Summary
When United 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 via united.com or the United app..
- Domestic airport cutoff: 45 minutes before departure at most airports, 30 minutes at some smaller stations..
- International airport cutoff: 60 minutes before departure..
- Bag drop deadline: 45 minutes before domestic departure, 60 minutes internationally..
When online check-in opens
24 hours before departure via united.com or the United app.
Domestic airport cutoff
45 minutes before departure at most airports, 30 minutes at some smaller stations.
International airport cutoff
60 minutes before departure.
Bag drop deadline
45 minutes before domestic departure, 60 minutes internationally.
Boarding and gate closure
Doors close 15 minutes before departure. United boards in groups 1–6 with pre-boarding for those needing assistance; Basic Economy boards in the final group.
Doing it in the app
The United app handles rebooking during irregular operations unusually well — when a flight cancels it will often present alternatives before an agent can. Use it first.
United check-in & boarding — common questions
When does United check-in open?
24 hours before departure via united.com or the United app.
How early do I need to be at the airport for United?
Domestic: 45 minutes before departure at most airports, 30 minutes at some smaller stations. International: 60 minutes before departure. Bags: 45 minutes before domestic departure, 60 minutes internationally.
How long before departure does the United gate close?
Doors close 15 minutes before departure. United boards in groups 1–6 with pre-boarding for those needing assistance; Basic Economy boards in the final group.
More United help
Booking United? 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.