Collecting Tickets At The Airport: A Step-By-Step Guide

If you have booked your flight online, either through an airline website or a travel-comparison site, you will receive a confirmation number by email. You can then print the confirmation email and take it with you to the airport. At the airport, you can locate an e-ticket kiosk for your airline and enter your confirmation code. If you don't have your confirmation number, you can enter other information such as your name, departure city, and flight time. Alternatively, you can go to the ticket counter and provide your name, destination, and approximate flight time.

E-tickets: locate an e-ticket kiosk for your airline in the airport lobby or near the ticket counter

If you have an e-ticket, you can use a self-service kiosk to check-in for your flight and print your boarding pass. These kiosks are usually located in the airport lobby or near the ticket counter.

To use a self-service kiosk, first locate the kiosk for your airline. Walk up to an open kiosk and identify yourself by inserting a credit card, scanning your passport or ID, typing in your flight confirmation code, or entering your frequent flyer number. You will then be able to confirm your flight information, choose or confirm your seat, and indicate whether you will be checking any bags. If you have checked in online, you may be able to scan your printed boarding pass at the kiosk.

Once you have entered all the necessary information, the kiosk will print your boarding pass. You will then need to proceed to the check-in counter to drop off any checked bags and receive your luggage claim tags.

It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in and security.

Ticket desk: if you don't have an e-ticket, go to the ticket desk and provide your name, destination, and flight time

If you don't have an e-ticket, you can go to the ticket desk at the airport and provide your name, destination, and flight time to collect your ticket. It is recommended that you arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before your flight to allow enough time for check-in and security.

At the ticket desk, you will need to provide the check-in agent with your identification and flight information. A valid passport is required for international flights, while a government-issued ID will suffice for domestic flights. If you booked your flight online, it is a good idea to print out your confirmation email to provide your flight information to the airline staff.

The check-in agent will then issue you a printed boarding pass, which is what allows you to board the plane. They will also print a tag for your luggage, which you should attach to your suitcase or backpack.

In some cases, you may be able to use a self-service check-in kiosk at the airport to print your boarding pass and luggage tags. These kiosks usually require you to scan your passport or enter your flight information.

While e-tickets are now the standard for air travel, there are still a few airlines that issue paper tickets. If you are unsure about the ticketing process, it is best to contact your airline directly for specific instructions.

Bag drop: if you're checking in a bag, go to the bag drop desk and get a boarding pass

If you're checking in a bag, you'll need to go to the bag drop desk at the airport. Here's what you need to know about the bag drop process:

Firstly, locate the bag drop desk or area in the airport. This is usually in the departures area, often near the check-in counters. Some airports may have multiple bag drop locations, so you can look for signs or ask for directions if you're unsure.

Once you've found the bag drop area, there may be different options available for dropping off your bag. Some airports offer traditional bag drop desks where you can speak to an agent, while others may have self-service bag drop systems. With a self-service system, you can scan your documents, print labels, weigh your baggage, and send it on its way without the need for staff assistance. This can often be faster and more convenient, but staff are usually still available to help if needed.

When using the bag drop service, you'll need to provide your travel documents, such as your passport and booking reference or confirmation. If you have already checked in online, make sure you have your boarding pass with you as well.

At the bag drop desk or self-service kiosk, you will need to weigh your bag to ensure it complies with the airline's weight restrictions. If your bag is overweight, you may be charged an additional fee or asked to remove some items. After weighing, you will be given a bag tag or label to attach to your luggage. This label includes important information such as your flight details and a unique bag identification number.

After your bag has been weighed and tagged, you will need to place it on the conveyor belt or in the designated area for it to be transported to the aircraft. Make sure you remove any loose straps or items that could get caught in the conveyor belt.

It's important to allow enough time for the bag drop process, especially if there are long queues. Each bag will need to be processed individually, so plan accordingly if you have multiple bags to check in.

Once your bag has been dropped off, you will receive a boarding pass if you haven't already obtained one during online check-in. Keep this safe, as you will need it to board your flight.

Online check-in: check in online and print your boarding pass before arriving at the airport

Online Check-In:

Checking in online is a convenient way to save time and hassle at the airport. Most airlines now offer this service through their websites or mobile apps. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to check in online and print your boarding pass before arriving at the airport:

• Timing: Keep an eye on the timing. Many airlines allow online check-in 24 hours before your flight. You will usually receive an email notification when online check-in opens.
• Device and Internet Connection: Ensure you have a good internet connection and the required device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
• Visit the Airline's Website or App: Go to the website or app of your airline and look for the "Check-In" or "Online Check-In" section. Log in using your booking reference, reservation code, or other required details.
• Enter Passenger Information: Provide the necessary information for each passenger, including their full name, passport or ID details, and any other required information.
• Select Seats: Choose your preferred seats if you haven't already done so during the booking process. You may also have the option to purchase additional services, such as extra legroom or baggage allowance.
• Review and Confirm: Carefully review all the information you have entered, including your travel documents, flight details, and seating preferences. Once you are sure everything is correct, confirm your check-in.
• Print Boarding Pass: After completing the online check-in process, you will have the option to print your boarding pass. It is recommended to print a physical copy, even if you also have a mobile version, as a backup in case of phone issues.
• Save to Mobile Wallet: If you choose to use a mobile boarding pass, save it to your phone's wallet or take a screenshot to ensure easy access, even if your internet connection is unstable.
• Arrive at the Airport: On the day of your flight, arrive at the airport with your printed or mobile boarding pass, along with your travel documents and any checked baggage. Allow sufficient time for security checks and reaching your gate.

Remember to always follow the specific instructions provided by your airline, as the process may vary slightly between different carriers. Additionally, keep in mind that some international flights may still require you to verify your passport at the check-in counter, even if you have checked in online.

Boarding: present your boarding pass and photo ID at the gate

Once you have located your boarding gate, you will need to present your boarding pass and photo ID to the gate agent. It is important to keep these documents handy as you will need them to board the plane.

If you have checked in online, you can download your boarding pass and present it on your phone. Alternatively, you can print it out and bring a physical copy. If you have checked in at the airport, either at a self-service kiosk or a check-in counter, you will have been given a printed boarding pass.

Make sure to have your ID ready as well. For travellers over 18, a driver's licence or passport may suffice. If you are travelling internationally, you will need a passport. Keep your ID and boarding pass handy until you reach your seat.

Boarding usually begins 15 minutes before the flight departs and closes 15 minutes before departure as well. Make sure to be at the gate on time.

Frequently asked questions