Flying United? Know This New Check-In Rule Before You Travel

United Airlines is tightening its domestic check-in rules just in time for summer travel. Starting June 3, all passengers must check in at least 45 minutes before departure—or risk missing their flight.

(WE) — As the summer travel season kicks off, United Airlines has announced a major update to its domestic flight check-in policy that could catch some travelers off guard. Starting June 3, passengers must now check in at least 45 minutes before departure for all domestic flights, regardless of whether they’re checking luggage.

Previously, travelers flying within the U.S. without checked baggage could check in as late as 30 minutes before takeoff. The new rule removes that distinction. Now, all domestic passengers must meet the same 45-minute check-in deadline. A United Airlines spokesperson explained to Travel + Leisure that the update is designed to align with the airline’s checked baggage policy and to match the industry standard used by most U.S. carriers.

“This change brings greater consistency for our customers,” the spokesperson said.

If you’re planning to fly with United this summer, this new policy is critical. Missing the cutoff can result in canceled reservations, denied boarding, or issues with checking bags. The airline won’t issue a boarding pass if you miss the check-in window. Although agents may try to find a later flight, there’s no guarantee.

This policy only affects domestic flights. International travelers still face the existing requirement to check in at least 60 minutes before their flight departs. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, check-in opens 24 hours before takeoff. You can complete it online, through the United mobile app, at a self-service kiosk, or in person at the airport.

Travel experts suggest checking in as early as possible. Doing so not only reduces stress but also gives you better chances of selecting a desirable seat. For travelers flying Basic Economy, early check-in could be especially helpful. Since these tickets don’t come with seat selection, passengers are automatically assigned seats when they check in. The earlier you do it, the better your odds of getting a favorable spot—and avoiding being bumped on oversold flights.

Airport check-in during the summer can be chaotic. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers should arrive at least two hours before departure for domestic flights. That’s enough time to park, drop off a rental car, take a shuttle, check in, and pass through security. If you don’t have a REAL ID, the agency advises arriving even earlier to allow time for additional screening.

The same goes for international flights—only with a longer cushion. Travel professionals recommend arriving at the airport about three hours before an international flight. That helps ensure there’s enough time for earlier check-in deadlines and longer security lines. Keep in mind that if your first leg is domestic but your final destination is abroad, your itinerary might still follow the international check-in policy.

Travelers often assume online check-in eliminates the need to plan ahead. While technology makes the process faster, the human element of airport logistics can’t be ignored. Traffic delays, airport parking congestion, longer security lines, and crowds at bag drop stations all affect how smoothly your trip begins.

United isn’t the first to implement stricter time limits. Many other airlines, including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and Southwest Airlines, have long required passengers to check in at least 45 minutes before domestic flights. Aligning with those standards helps reduce confusion, especially for travelers flying multiple airlines on a single trip.

What does this mean for frequent fliers? If you’re used to cutting it close, it’s time to change that habit. Even if you’re not checking a bag, you’ll still need to meet the 45-minute minimum. Otherwise, United could cancel your reservation.

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The new rule also underscores the importance of using tools like mobile boarding passes, prepaid baggage options, and TSA PreCheck. These features help travelers speed through airport procedures and meet new deadlines. TSA PreCheck members, for example, can often breeze through security checkpoints, saving crucial time during peak travel periods.

United Airlines encourages customers to monitor their booking closely and sign up for flight alerts. If your flight is delayed or gate changes occur, getting real-time notifications allows you to respond quickly. Using United’s app, passengers can view gate info, check seat maps, and track bags in real time.

Parents traveling with young children or those with disabilities should allow even more time at the airport. While assistance is available, it may take extra time to get through the process. United offers support services for people with mobility issues, hearing or vision impairments, and other specific needs—but arranging this in advance is always best.

Also, United’s Basic Economy passengers should be especially mindful of the new rule. Since this fare class restricts both carry-on baggage and seat selection, late check-in adds risk. In oversold situations, airlines often bump the last passengers to check in.

If you’re flying with pets, make sure you understand United’s pet policy before heading to the airport. In-cabin pet travel requires early check-in at the airport, and arriving too late can result in canceled pet reservations.

In addition to real-time app updates, United provides live chat customer service and a support phone line. If you’re unsure whether your flight qualifies as domestic or international, it’s best to check with a live agent.

The June 3 policy update also reflects a broader trend in the airline industry. Carriers are trying to streamline operations as they prepare for record-breaking summer travel. The Federal Aviation Administration expects tens of millions of passengers to pass through U.S. airports this season, putting pressure on both airlines and airport infrastructure.

The airline industry expects passenger traffic to surpass 2019 levels. with U.S. Travel Association forecasting a busy summer for both domestic and international travel. Airlines are under pressure to keep flights on schedule, minimize gate delays, and reduce tarmac congestion. Enforcing earlier check-in cutoffs helps them hit those goals.

To recap, here’s what you need to know if you’re flying with United Airlines after June 3:

• You must check in at least 45 minutes before your domestic flight departs.
• It doesn’t matter whether you have checked baggage—this applies to all domestic travelers.
• You can check in online, via mobile app, at a kiosk, or at the ticket counter.
• Missing the check-in deadline may mean you’ll miss your flight.
• For international flights, the 60-minute rule still applies.
• Arrive two hours early for domestic flights and three hours for international ones.
• Consider joining programs like TSA PreCheck to speed up the process.
• Use United’s app for real-time flight updates, seat selection, and bag tracking.

While some travelers may find the new rule inconvenient, it ultimately aims to prevent chaos at the gate. By arriving early and checking in promptly, passengers increase their odds of a smooth journey.

Airlines like United continue to adjust operations in response to growing demand. Keeping up with these changes—especially those that affect boarding or baggage—can mean the difference between catching your flight or missing it entirely. Whether you’re flying from Chicago O’Hare, Newark, Denver International, or another United hub, allow plenty of time to meet these new requirements.

Failing to follow this updated check-in policy could cost more than just time. It could mean losing your seat, your flight, or your vacation altogether. Don’t let that happen—start planning early, check in early, and fly smart.