You can check in online for an Ethiopian Airlines flight starting 48 hours before scheduled departure, and online check-in closes 2 hours before departure for both domestic and international flights. (aircanada.com)
To complete online check-in via Ethiopian Airlines’ website or mobile app, simply enter your booking reference (PNR) and last name within that time window. You'll be able to: select or change your seat, declare checked baggage, update any personal details, and choose to receive your boarding pass electronically—either via email or the app—or print it at the airport. Note that some routes may require you to collect your boarding pass in person at the airport. Additionally, passengers who need special assistance, are traveling with unaccompanied minors, or have complex bookings may not be eligible for online check-in and must check in at the counter.
If you prefer or require in-person assistance, Ethiopian Airlines provides self-service kiosks and staffed check-in counters at airports. These counters generally open 3 hours before departure for international flights and 1 hour before for domestic flights. For flights to or from the United States, it's recommended to arrive 4 hours prior to complete security checks, pre-clearance, or CBP (U.S. Customs and Border Protection) requirements.
Ethiopian Airlines enforces the following check-in deadlines to ensure timely boarding:
Domestic flights: Check-in closes 45 minutes before departure
International flights (non-U.S.): Check-in closes 60 minutes before departure
U.S.-bound or from U.S.: Arrive at the airport 4 hours before departure to complete check-in and documentation (aircanada.com, reddit.com)
The boarding gate typically closes 30 minutes before departure, so you’ll need to be at your gate well in advance.
If you miss the online window, you can still check in at airport kiosks from 12 hours before departure until the applicable counter cut-off for your flight type. Staffed counters follow the deadlines listed above. (travomojo.com)
Special cases require extra attention:
Unaccompanied minors and passengers with special needs must check in at the airport.
Group bookings (10 or more) may require in-person check-in.
Special baggage (sports equipment, musical instruments, pets) should be declared and may need counter assistance.
Reissued or revalidated tickets may also require airport check-in. (aircanada.com, seatmaestro.com)
Summary: Ethiopian Airlines passengers can check in online from 48 hours until 2 hours before departure. Airport counters open 3 hours (international) and 1 hour (domestic) before departure—with a 4-hour recommendation for U.S. flights. Check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international departures, and boarding gates close 30 minutes before departure. Facilities are available to accommodate passengers who miss online check-in or require assistance.