The web check in time on most Indian airlines starts 48 hours before departure and closes 60 minutes before a domestic flight. Air India Express opens much earlier, 14 days ahead, while international flights usually close 75 minutes to 2 hours before departure. Here are the exact web check-in times for each airline, straight from their own websites.
Quick answer
- IndiGo: 48 hours to 60 minutes before domestic flights; 24 hours to 75 minutes before international flights.
- Air India: opens 48 hours before; closes 1 hour before domestic and 2 hours before international flights.
- Air India Express: 14 days to 1 hour before departure.
- Akasa Air: 48 hours to 1 hour before departure, domestic and international.
- Rule of thumb: check in the day before, and reach the airport at least 2 hours early for domestic flights.
What is the web check in time for each airline?
This table lists when web check-in opens and closes on India’s main airlines. All figures come from each airline’s own web check-in page, last checked on 8 November 2026.
| Airline | Opens | Closes (domestic) | Closes (international) |
|---|---|---|---|
| IndiGo | 48 hours before (domestic); 24 hours before (international) | 60 minutes before | 75 minutes before |
| Air India | 48 hours before | 1 hour before | 2 hours before |
| Air India Express | 14 days before | 1 hour before | 1 hour before |
| Akasa Air | 48 hours before | 1 hour before | 1 hour before |
SpiceJet does not list its web check-in window on its FAQ page. So check the SpiceJet app or your booking email for the exact time on your flight.
When does web check-in open?
For most airlines, it opens 48 hours before departure. However, there are two big exceptions. IndiGo opens international web check-in only 24 hours ahead. Meanwhile, Air India Express opens it 14 days early, which is handy if you want to lock in a seat well in advance.
Web check in time for domestic flights: when does it close?
All four airlines close domestic web check-in 60 minutes before departure. After that, you cannot check in online, and you may not be able to fly at all if the counter has also closed. IndiGo’s airport counters, for example, close 60 minutes before domestic flights too.
Is web check-in different for international flights?
Yes, it usually closes earlier. IndiGo closes international web check-in 75 minutes before departure, and Air India closes it 2 hours before. Also, you may still need to visit the counter to verify your passport and visa, so plan to reach the airport about 3 hours early.
What happens if I miss the web check-in window?
If check-in is still open at the airport, you can check in at the counter or a self-service kiosk. Then again, once the counter deadline passes, the airline can deny boarding even with a confirmed ticket. So if you have missed web check-in, head to the counter immediately rather than queuing for security.
Do I still need to reach the airport early after web check-in?
Yes. Web check-in only saves you the counter queue. You still need time for bag drop, security and the walk to the gate. Therefore, aim for 2 hours before domestic flights, especially at busy airports like Delhi and Mumbai. Registering on DigiYatra for faster airport entry can save a few more minutes.
Tips to get web check-in right
- Check in as soon as the window opens if you want a window or aisle seat for free.
- Download the boarding pass to your phone and keep a screenshot, in case the airport network is slow.
- If you have a bag to check in, look up the cabin baggage limits first, so you know what can go in the cabin.
- Flying in winter? Fog delays are common in North India, so read why CAT III landing still can’t stop every fog cancellation.
FAQ
How many hours before a flight does web check-in open?
Usually 48 hours on IndiGo, Air India and Akasa Air. Air India Express opens 14 days ahead, while IndiGo international flights open 24 hours ahead.
What time does web check-in close for domestic flights?
60 minutes before departure on IndiGo, Air India, Air India Express and Akasa Air.
Does the web check in time affect seat selection?
Yes. The earlier you check in, the more free seats you can choose from, so check in as soon as the window opens.
Is web check-in free?
Checking in online is free. However, picking a preferred seat during web check-in may cost extra, depending on the airline and fare.
Can I do web check-in if I have checked baggage?
Yes. Check in online, then drop your bag at the airline’s bag drop counter before it closes.
