Heads-Up, Travelers: Airlines Are Updating Their Check-In Process — Here’s What You Need to Know
June 3, 2025
With summer travel season in full swing, airlines are making several updates to their check-in processes, and it’s important for our campus community to stay informed — especially if you’ve got upcoming flights for study abroad programs, research travel, or conferences.
What’s Changing?
Airlines across the industry are rolling out updates designed to streamline check-in and improve security. While changes vary by carrier, here are some trends you may encounter:
- Mandatory App Check-In: Many airlines are encouraging — and in some cases requiring passengers to check in via their mobile apps instead of airport kiosks. This includes uploading travel documents (e.g., passports, visas) directly in the app.
- Earlier Cutoff Times: Some airlines have adjusted their deadlines for check-in and bag drop to reduce delays and improve boarding efficiency. Be sure to check these times before heading to the airport.
- Biometric Screening Expansion: You might see more facial recognition and digital ID verification at TSA checkpoints and boarding gates, especially at major hubs.
- Fewer Agents at Counters: With increased automation, traditional check-in counters are scaling back staffing. Human help is still available, but may be limited, especially for economy-class passengers.
- Baggage Fees and Seat Selection: New rules may require you to select a seat or pay for bags during the mobile check-in process, rather than at the gate. Don’t skip those final steps on the app!
How to Stay Informed
Each airline has its own policies, and they may change with little notice. Here's how you can stay on top of the latest:
- Visit the Airline’s Official Website: Go to the “Travel Information” or “Check-In” section of your airline’s website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
- Download the Airline’s App: Mobile apps often have the latest check-in options, gate updates, and travel alerts.
- Check Your Email & Text Alerts: Watch for updates from your airline after booking — especially within 48 hours of your flight.
- Review Transportation Security Administration (TSA.gov) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP.gov): For information on ID requirements, international entry rules, and biometric screening.
Pro Tips for Smooth Travel
- Arrive early: With changes in bag drop and ID screening, build in extra time — especially at unfamiliar airports.
- Double-check your documents: Make sure your ID, passport, or digital credentials match your reservation name exactly.
- Charge your phone: If the airline app is your boarding pass, you don’t want to be low on battery!
Whether you are heading off to present at a conference, taking a study abroad trip, or a research trip, a little prep goes a long way. Safe travels!