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United Airlines Tightens Domestic Check-In Deadline to 45 Minutes Before Takeoff

The update mirrors baggage deadlines used by other carriers to improve departure punctuality.

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Overview

  • Effective June 3, United Airlines requires check-in 45 minutes before departure for most U.S. flights, up from a 30-minute cutoff.
  • Passengers who miss the new deadline risk reservation cancellation, denied boarding or refusal to check their bags.
  • International flights still require check-in at least 60 minutes before takeoff, with some airports enforcing longer lead times.
  • The policy took effect as carriers brace for peak summer travel and aims to streamline bag processing and boarding procedures.
  • The deadline shift coincides with United’s legal dispute over Chicago O’Hare gate allocations and follows similar changes by rivals such as Southwest Airlines.