How Early Can You Check In on Ethiopian Airlines?

If you are flying with Ethiopian Airlines, it’s important to know how early you can check in to avoid delays and ensure a smooth departure. Ethiopian Airlines allows online check-in starting 36 hours before the scheduled departure time and closes it 2 hours before the flight. This convenient service can be accessed through the official Ethiopian Airlines website or the mobile app. You simply enter your booking reference and last name to begin, then confirm your travel details, select your seat, and receive your electronic boarding pass, which can be downloaded, printed, or saved on your smartphone. Online check-in is available for most international and domestic flights operated by Ethiopian Airlines. It is especially useful if you're traveling with carry-on luggage only, as it allows you to skip the traditional check-in counters at the airport and proceed directly to security and boarding. However, passengers with checked baggage must still visit the baggage drop counters, which typically open 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights, and usually close 1 hour before takeoff. For those who prefer airport check-in, Ethiopian Airlines counters at international airports generally open 3 hours before departure and close 60 minutes before the flight, depending on the destination and local airport procedures. For domestic flights within Ethiopia, check-in opens 2 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes prior to takeoff. The airline recommends arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights and 90 minutes before domestic flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security clearance, health documentation checks, and boarding. Ethiopian Airlines also advises travelers to ensure that their travel documents, such as passports, visas, and COVID-related health forms, are valid and ready before starting the check-in process. In some cases, such as passengers traveling with infants, needing special assistance, or booked under group or codeshare arrangements, online check-in may not be available, and travelers must check in at the airport. Boarding gates for Ethiopian Airlines flights typically close 30 minutes before departure, so it’s important to complete all check-in steps and reach your gate on time. For a better experience, passengers are encouraged to use the airline’s ShebaMiles account, check real-time updates on the mobile app, and monitor any last-minute changes to departure times. In summary, passengers flying with Ethiopian Airlines can check in online from 36 hours up to 2 hours before flight time, or at the airport from 3 hours to 1 hour before international flights, and from 2 hours to 45 minutes before domestic flights. Checking in early helps ensure you get your preferred seat, avoid long queues, and pass through all procedures without unnecessary stress. For the most accurate and current information, always refer to the official website, www.ethiopianairlines.com, or contact their customer support.