Checking in early with Thai Airways is essential for a smooth travel experience, and knowing exactly how early you can check in helps you plan your trip better. Thai Airways offers multiple check-in methods, including online check-in, mobile app check-in, self-service kiosks, and airport counters. For most flights, online check-in opens 48 hours before the scheduled departure time and remains available until 1 hour before takeoff. This gives passengers a comfortable window to check in remotely, choose or change seats, and receive their boarding pass electronically via the official Thai Airways website or mobile app. Online check-in is especially convenient for travelers with carry-on luggage only, as it allows them to skip the check-in counters and head straight to security and boarding. If you are traveling with checked baggage, you will still need to visit the airport baggage drop counter, which usually closes 60 minutes before international flights and 45 minutes before domestic flights. At the airport, Thai Airways check-in counters generally open 3 hours before international flights and about 2 hours before domestic flights. Arriving at least 3 hours early for international flights is recommended to allow sufficient time for check-in, baggage drop, security screening, immigration, and boarding procedures. Thai Airways has introduced self-service kiosks at major airports, such as Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport, which speed up the check-in process by letting passengers print boarding passes and baggage tags without waiting in long lines. Certain passengers, including those traveling with infants, requiring special assistance, or flying on code-share flights operated by partner airlines, may be ineligible for online or kiosk check-in and must check in at the staffed counters for personalized support. Priority check-in is available for Business Class passengers and Royal Orchid Plus elite members, giving access to dedicated counters for expedited processing. While check-in policies can vary slightly based on the departure airport and route, Thai Airways consistently encourages passengers to check in as early as possible to avoid delays and secure preferred seats. Early check-in also reduces wait times and helps ensure a more relaxed start to your journey. Thai Airways communicates check-in availability and flight updates through email and the mobile app, making it easy for travelers to stay informed. In summary, Thai Airways opens online check-in 48 hours before departure and closes it 1 hour prior to flight time. Airport counters open approximately 3 hours before international flights and close 60 minutes before departure. Arriving early and utilizing online or kiosk check-in whenever possible ensures a smooth, efficient start to your trip. Following these guidelines helps passengers enjoy the best possible service and convenience when flying with Thai Airways.