British Airways allows passengers to check in online starting 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. This can be done through the British Airways website or the mobile app. For flights departing from the United States, online check-in opens 23 hours before departure. The check-in process includes seat selection, adding baggage, and obtaining a boarding pass, which can be printed or saved to a mobile device. Online check-in closes one hour before departure for most international flights and 45 minutes before for short-haul flights.

Passengers with only hand baggage can proceed directly to security after checking in online. Those with checked baggage must drop their bags at the Bag Drop desk. These desks usually open three hours before the flight and close 60 minutes before departure for long-haul flights, or 45 minutes before for short-haul flights. At London Heathrow Terminal 5 and London Gatwick, overnight bag drop is available between 16:00 and 22:00 for flights departing before 13:00 the following day.

Airport check-in desks typically open from three to four hours before departure, depending on the airport and destination. At London City Airport, check-in closes 20 to 30 minutes before departure. For passengers traveling in premium cabins or holding executive status, dedicated check-in areas may be available. Self-service kiosks are also provided at many airports for quick check-in and printing of boarding passes and bag tags.

If you are flying from smaller regional airports, check-in times may be shorter and counters may open closer to departure. It is recommended to verify check-in times specific to your airport and destination in the “Manage My Booking” section of the British Airways website. Failure to check in or drop off baggage before the deadline may result in denied boarding.

To summarize, British Airways online check-in opens 24 hours before departure (23 hours from the U.S.), closes 45–60 minutes before takeoff, and allows seat selection, baggage check, and boarding pass issuance. Airport check-in and bag drop generally open three hours before departure and close 45–60 minutes before takeoff. Always check the specific times for your flight and airport to ensure a smooth departure.