Why Will Aer Lingus Not Let Me Check In Online?

If you’re asking, “Why will Aer Lingus not let me check in online?” you’re not alone. Many travelers experience issues with online check-in due to specific reasons related to booking details, flight type, or documentation. Aer Lingus online check-in typically opens 48 hours before departure for short-haul flights and 24 hours before long-haul international flights, but there are several reasons why it may not be available for your booking. The most common reason Aer Lingus does not allow online check-in is due to passport or visa checks required for certain destinations. If your route involves international travel to a country that requires manual verification of documents, the system may block online check-in and instead require you to check in at the airport.

Another common issue is when a passenger is part of a group booking or traveling with special requirements, such as an unaccompanied minor, passengers needing medical assistance, or those flying with pets. These bookings often need manual processing by airline staff, which is why the online system will not permit self check-in. Additionally, if your booking was made through a third-party travel agency or includes multiple airlines, Aer Lingus may need to confirm details at the desk, especially for interline or codeshare flights. This can also happen if there is a name mismatch between your booking and passport, or if your booking includes special baggage requests, seat upgrades, or additional services that haven’t been finalized.

Some travelers are also blocked from online check-in if there are payment issues, such as incomplete fare payments or failed credit card authorizations. If your booking status is still marked as “pending” or “not confirmed,” the check-in system won’t activate until that is resolved. Always double-check your booking confirmation to ensure everything is finalized.

Technical issues on the Aer Lingus website or app can also be the reason. Sometimes, scheduled maintenance, outdated browser versions, or poor internet connection may interrupt the process. Trying from another device, using a different browser, or checking back in a few hours can sometimes resolve these problems.

If you're trying to check in too early—more than 48 hours before a short-haul flight or more than 24 hours before a long-haul flight—the system will simply show no check-in available yet. Always verify the specific check-in opening time for your route on the official Aer Lingus website.

In summary, Aer Lingus may not let you check in online due to visa checks, group or special bookings, technical issues, or incorrect booking details. For the most accurate answer, contact Aer Lingus customer service or go to the airport check-in counter. To avoid issues, confirm your booking status, double-check travel documents, and use the online check-in tool as soon as the window opens.