Top Pre-Flight Tips: Ticketing, Checking-In & Boarding

Your Pre-Flight Checklist

UPDATED OCTOBER 07, 2024

Flight Tickets 101: 4 Simple Steps

1. Ensure You Have the Correct Passenger Information

Before you take off for the airport, it’s crucial to double-check all your personal and flight details. Errors in passenger information can result in costly last-minute changes or even denied boarding. Follow these guidelines to ensure everything is in order:

The Name on Your Tickets

When booking your flight, the name on your ticket must exactly match your identification, typically your passport or government-issued ID. Even a slight mismatch, like a missing middle initial or an extra space, could lead to complications. Airlines require exact matches for security reasons, and discrepancies may delay or even prevent you from boarding. Always double-check the spelling of your name before finalizing your booking.

Do You Need Your Middle Name on Airline Tickets?

In most cases, middle names are not required on airline tickets as long as your first and last names match your government ID. However, it’s best to check the airline’s specific policies to avoid any issues during boarding. Some airlines might ask for a middle name if it’s listed on your passport, while others are more lenient. Always err on the side of caution by reviewing your airline's guidelines or calling customer service if you have concerns.

Double-Check Your Date of Birth and Other Information

Beyond just your name, ensure that all other personal details, such as your date of birth and nationality, are accurately entered when booking. This is especially important for international flights, where incorrect data could cause delays at customs or immigration. An error in these details might require time-consuming corrections through the airline’s customer service channels, which could lead to additional fees.

2. Check Your Flight Details

If GET booked your airfare, your flight information is included in your travel documents. Use your Flight Reservation Number to verify your booking on the airline’s website. For multi-leg flights involving different airlines, you’ll need to use each airline's reference number to check those details.

Use Airline Mobile Apps for Real-Time Updates

Most airlines have developed comprehensive mobile apps that integrate seamlessly with their mobile boarding passes. These apps allow you to check in, select your seat, and receive important notifications about your flight. Additionally, many apps offer features such as in-flight entertainment options and the ability to manage your frequent flyer account, making your travel experience more enjoyable and efficient.

Benefits of Using Airline Mobile Apps

Downloading and using your airline’s mobile app can streamline the check-in process. These apps often allow you to check in, choose seats, and receive real-time updates about your flight. 

Helpful Smartphone Apps for Travelers.

3. Confirm Your Seats 24 to 48 Hours Before Your Flight

Visit Your Airline’s Website to View Your Seats. Airlines typically finalize seat assignments within 30 days of departure. However, schedule changes and equipment swaps may affect your seating. Remember, seat assignments are not guaranteed until check-in, so always verify your seat just before your flight. Check your seat selection often the weeks leading up to your trip. As your departure date approaches, it’s a good idea to confirm your seat is still available.

Checking in early online is highly recommended, as it allows you to secure your seat assignment, avoid long lines at the airport, and sometimes even receive discounted upgrades. The check-in process typically starts 24 to 48 hours before your flight, depending on the airline. Most airlines allow online check-in 24 hours prior to departure. During this time, you’ll receive your boarding pass, and you can check the final seat and gate information. 

• Online Check-In: Most airlines offer online check-in via their website or mobile app. You can enter your flight reference number to access your booking and confirm your seat. Once checked in, you’ll receive a mobile boarding pass, which you can save on your phone or print at home.

• Airport Check-In: If you don’t check in online, you can do so at the airport at a kiosk or the airline’s check-in counter. For international flights, some airlines may require in-person check-in to verify travel documents like passports and visas. Always check your airline’s specific requirements.

• Baggage Drop: If you’ve checked in online and only have carry-on luggage, you can proceed directly to security. If you have checked luggage, most airlines offer a dedicated bag drop lane, allowing you to avoid full check-in lines.

Changing Seats After Checking-In

In most cases, you can change your seat during check-in (online or at the airport) if other seats are available. Some airlines allow last-minute changes for a fee or if you upgrade to a higher class.

4.  Your Boarding Pass & Travel Documents

A boarding pass serves as your ticket to board the plane. It contains essential information like your flight number, boarding gate, seat assignment, and boarding time. You can get it digitally through online check-in or as a paper copy at the airport. Your boarding pass is one of the most important documents for your trip. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Mobile Boarding Pass: After checking in online, you’ll receive a mobile boarding pass, which you can save on your smartphone. Mobile passes are widely accepted by most airports and airlines, but it’s always good to double-check if you’re flying internationally.

• Printed Boarding Pass: If you prefer a physical copy or your mobile pass isn’t working, you can print your boarding pass at home or at the airport kiosks. Some travelers find it reassuring to have a paper copy in case of phone issues or low battery.

• Gate and Seat Information: Keep an eye on your gate and seat assignments, as these can change after you check in. Airlines may switch gates or seats at the last minute due to operational needs, so always confirm this information before heading to your gate.

Using a Mobile Boarding Pass

Mobile boarding passes provide real-time updates on your flight status, gate changes, and boarding times. This ensures you stay informed and can adjust your plans accordingly without having to constantly check airport monitors or wait for announcements. If you lose a boarding pass, you'll need to visit the airline’s check-in desk or a customer service counter at the airport to get a reprint. However, if you’re using a mobile boarding pass, you can typically simply re-download it via the airline’s app. Plus, most phones will show your boarding pass on your lock screen, so it's always available for reference.

With your boarding pass readily available on your smartphone, you eliminate the need to print or carry a paper ticket. This not only reduces the risk of losing your boarding pass but also streamlines your travel experience by allowing for quick and easy access at various checkpoints throughout the airport. 

The 101s of Using a Mobile Boarding Pass.

Essential Documents to Bring to the Airport for Check-In and Travel

Having the right documents ready and organized will make your airport experience smoother and reduce stress, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

Pre-Check Options to Expedite Security

To streamline your airport experience, consider using pre-check options like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, or CLEAR. These programs can significantly reduce wait times at security and customs. For a detailed comparison of these options, check out our article: TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, NEXUS, or CLEAR: Which Is the Best for Expediting Security and Customs.

Maximize Efficiency at the Airport

Being prepared for security checkpoints and boarding can save you a lot of time and reduce stress. Here are some tips to help you get through the process smoothly. 

Arrive Early: For domestic flights, plan to arrive at least two hours before departure. For international flights, aim for three hours, especially during peak travel times.

Prepare Your Documents: Have your boarding pass and ID (or passport for international flights) ready as soon as you approach the security line to keep things moving quickly.

GET's Ultimate Airport Survival Guide

To pass through security with ease, make sure all your liquids are under 100ml and pack them in a clear, resealable bag. Also, remove electronics from your carry-on bag and wear easily removable shoes. Familiarizing yourself with TSA rules can help you avoid delays.

TSA Liquid Limit: What Can I Bring?

Expedited Security Options: Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry (for international travelers), which allow you to pass through security checkpoints faster without removing shoes, laptops, or jackets. These services can significantly reduce your wait time.

TSA PreCheck Global Entry NEXUS or CLEAR - Which Is Best for You?

Checking In for a Flight

General Flight Check-In Time Guidelines

For domestic flights, it's recommended to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure, while for international flights, 2 to 3 hours early is best. This gives you ample time for check-in, security screening, and locating your gate. If you arrive after check-in has closed (usually 45-60 minutes before departure for domestic and 60-90 minutes for international), you may be denied boarding. Always check your airline’s cut-off times and aim to arrive early to avoid this.

Domestic Flights

For most airlines, passengers must check in at least 90 minutes before departure for domestic flights. This has increased from the previously common 60-minute requirement.

International Flights

For international flights, the check-in time requirement is typically 2-3 hours before departure, up from the previous standard of 60 minutes.

Special Considerations

Certain airports and airlines may have different check-in requirements. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements for your airline and departure airport before you travel.

Current Average Wait Times for Major Airlines

Airlines have been updating their check-in time requirements to ensure smooth operations and timely departures. It is important for travelers to be aware of these changes to avoid missing their flights. Check the specific requirements on the official website of your airline or contact the airport directly for the most accurate information.

Check-In Time Requirements for Major Airlines

Understanding current wait times can help you plan your arrival at the airport more efficiently. Here are the current average wait times for check-in and security for some major airlines:

• United Airlines: 45-60 minutes
• American Airlines: 40-55 minutes
• Delta Airlines: 35-50 minutes
• Southwest Airlines: 30-45 minutes
• JetBlue: 30-50 minutes

Please note that these times can vary based on the time of day, airport, and other factors. Check the specific requirements on the official app or website of your airline or contact the airport directly for the most accurate information.

Official Statements and Future Changes

Airlines often update their policies and contracts of carriage to reflect potential future changes. It is important to stay informed by checking the official websites of the airlines you are flying with for the most current information.

Boarding Your Flight

What to Expect After Check-In

Once you’ve successfully checked in and passed through security, it's time to explore the airport and get ready to board your flight. Make sure to allow enough time after security to get to your gate, especially if it’s a large airport. It's standard for airlines to begin boarding 30-45 minutes before your flight is scheduled to depart. Boarding gates typically closes 10-15 minutes before departure, and late arrivals may be denied boarding. 

Final Seat Confirmation at Gate

If you weren’t assigned a seat during check-in, you’ll receive it at your boarding gate before or when boarding begins. For travelers with special needs or mobility concerns, notify the airline in advance to ensure appropriate accommodations during boarding.

Flight Boarding Order: Understanding Who Boards First and Why

Boarding groups are assigned based on your ticket class or frequent flyer status, so listen carefully for your group to be called. Understanding the different ticket classes also helps prepare you for what to expect when you board and find your seats.

• Pre-Boarding: Passengers requiring extra assistance, including those with disabilities or reduced mobility, as well as military personnel (depending on the airline), are usually the first to board.
• Families with Young Children: Parents traveling with children under a certain age (usually under two or five) are often invited to board early to allow extra time to get settled.
• First Class: Passengers seated in First Class are among the first to board. They enjoy priority boarding and access to exclusive lounges, offering a premium experience from start to finish.
• Business Class: Following First Class, Business Class passengers, who benefit from more space, comfort, and enhanced services, board next.
• Frequent-Flyer Status Members: Airlines often give boarding priority to travelers with elite or loyalty status, such as Gold, Platinum, or Diamond members, as part of their frequent-flyer program perks.
• Premium Economy: Travelers in Premium Economy, which offers more legroom and enhanced services compared to regular Economy, are typically invited to board after Business Class.
• Economy: Economy passengers, who have the most affordable ticket option, are typically divided into groups or zones based on seat locations (rear, middle, or front of the plane) and are boarded in stages.
• Basic Economy: Some airlines offer Basic Economy as the most restrictive fare option, and these passengers are often the last to board, typically without access to overhead bin space until others are seated.

Economy Class and Online Check-In

Economy class passengers, especially those flying basic economy, often face additional challenges. Some airlines do not allow basic economy passengers to check in online or via mobile apps. These passengers must arrive at the airport early enough to ensure they are at the front of the line an hour before departure. The time required to reach the front of the line can vary depending on staff availability, ticket sales, and the number of kiosks at the airport.

Final Tips on Preparing for a Flight

With proper planning and attention to detail, you can minimize stress and ensure a smooth journey. Arriving at the airport early, checking in online, and staying updated on your flight status are small steps that can save you time and hassle. Don’t forget to prepare your devices with entertainment and chargers for a comfortable flight.

By taking these precautions, you'll be able to navigate security more smoothly, avoid last-minute surprises, and settle into your flight with ease. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, this approach allows you to embrace your trip with confidence, knowing you’ve covered all the essentials. Safe travels, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes from being fully prepared!