So how does Delta Airlines check-in online work? And how early can you check in on Delta?
According to Delta, you can check in for your flight online starting 24 hours and ending 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time (depending on your departure city and destination).
TL;DR
- Check in online 24 hours before departure, up to 60 minutes before takeoff.
- Use the Delta website or Fly Delta App for fastest check-in.
- Pay for bags online to save money compared to the airport.
- Choose a mobile or paper boarding pass.
- Go straight to security if traveling with carry-on only.
- Minors traveling alone, passengers needing special assistance, and some international travelers must check in at the counter.
- Arrive early even if checked in online to ensure smooth boarding.
You may check in for your flight using different options:
- Online (Website check-in)
- Fly Delta App
- Airport Kiosk
- Airport Check-In Desk
- Airport Curbside
We will focus on check-in online because it is the most researched, the fastest, and the best way to check in early.
The check-in process is almost the same for the website and the Fly Delta App.
Here is how to check in for your Delta flight online.
On your phone, open the Delta website or the Delta App (App store / Android). Select “Check In” in the page header or go to My Trips.
You can log in by entering your personal info, using your confirmation number,
credit card number, or ticket number.
You can then add your bags and proceed to get your boarding pass.
Remember, if you want to prepay for luggage, it is always cheaper to do it online than at the airport.
And Voila!!
Here is your boarding pass, you can now save it to your phone or print it if you want.
FAQs on Delta Airlines Check-In
What does early check-in mean on Delta?
Early check-in means checking in online starting 24 hours prior to your departure. Online check-in lets you add your bags, download, and print your boarding pass so you can avoid long lines at the airport.
How to get your Delta boarding pass at the airport kiosk?
If you decide to wait until you arrive at the airport, using a Delta kiosk is very simple. Just follow the on-screen instructions and enter your SkyMiles number, confirmation number, or eTicket number to access your trip, print your boarding pass, and add your bags.
How long before a flight can you check in with Delta?
You can check in online 24 hours before your flight. If you prefer to check in at the airport for a domestic flight, Delta recommends arriving at least 2 hours before departure to complete check-in and security screening.
Should I check in at the airport or online?
You can check in online via the Delta website, the Fly Delta App, an airport kiosk, the check-in desk, or curbside. Online check-in is the most convenient option since you can add your luggage from home or your hotel. It also saves money, as purchasing baggage online is usually cheaper than at the airport.
Can I go straight to security if I checked in online?
Yes. One of the main benefits of online check-in is that you can skip the check-in desk. If you are traveling with carry-on only, you can go directly to security and then to your gate.
Who cannot check in online with Delta?
Most passengers can check in online, but some cannot. If you are a minor traveling alone, need special assistance, or are flying internationally and your passport must be scanned, you will need to check in at the counter.
Do I need a mobile pass or a paper boarding pass?
You can choose either. A mobile boarding pass is a QR code on your phone, while a paper boarding pass can be printed at home or at the airport. A mobile pass is faster, but a paper one is useful if your phone battery dies.
What about international flights?
If you are flying internationally, Delta may need to check your passport or visa. Even if you check in online, you might still need to stop at the counter for a quick document verification.
Why is online check-in better?
Online check-in saves time because you can choose a better seat if available, pay for bags at a reduced rate, and skip long lines if you only have a carry-on.
What if online check-in doesn’t work?
Online check-in may not work if you haven’t paid for your ticket or baggage, if your ID or passport details are missing, if you need special assistance, or due to a system glitch. If this happens, you can check in at a kiosk or the Delta counter.
Do I still need to arrive early if I checked in online?
Yes. Delta typically starts boarding 30–45 minutes before departure, and the gate closes 15 minutes before takeoff. Always plan to arrive early to avoid missing your flight.
Is the website or app better?
Both options work well. The app is convenient if you want your boarding pass on your phone, while the website is better if you prefer to print your pass.
People also ask:
- Why Can’t I Check In Online?
- Is Delta strict with checked bag size?
- How strict is Delta with carry on size?
- Is Delta strict with personal item size?
