+1-866-551-1186 How early can you check in for a WestJet flight?

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How Early Can You Check In for a WestJet Flight?

If you're flying with WestJet, it's important to know exactly how early you can check in to avoid delays and ensure a smooth airport experience. WestJet offers flexible check-in options including online check-in, mobile check-in, airport kiosk check-in, and airport counter check-in, each with specific timing guidelines. Online and mobile check-in open 24 hours before your scheduled departure time and close 60 minutes before your flight for both domestic and international routes. This is the most efficient way to check in, allowing you to select seats, add baggage, and receive a digital or printable boarding pass. For most passengers, online or mobile check-in is the fastest and easiest way to avoid lines at the airport. If you prefer checking in at the airport, WestJet’s check-in counters typically open 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours before domestic flights, depending on the airport. These counters close 45 minutes before departure for flights within Canada and 60 minutes before departure for international and transborder flights. To ensure you don’t miss check-in or baggage deadlines, WestJet recommends arriving at the airport at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and 2 to 3 hours before international flights, especially during busy travel times or holidays. If you’re traveling with checked bags, you must drop off your luggage before the cut-off time—checked baggage must be dropped at least 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. WestJet also provides self-service kiosks at major airports, which allow you to check in, print your boarding pass, and tag your bags. These kiosks typically become available 3 hours before departure and are a great option if you didn’t check in online. For travelers needing special assistance, traveling with pets, oversized items, or unaccompanied minors, it's highly recommended to arrive even earlier than the standard check-in time to allow for additional processing. WestJet also offers priority check-in at select airports for Business, Premium, and Elite tier guests. Regardless of check-in method, passengers must be at the boarding gate at least 40 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. Boarding gates close 10 minutes before departure, and late passengers may be denied boarding even if checked in. At busier hubs like Calgary (YYC), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR), security wait times can be longer, so it’s always safer to plan for early arrival. In summary, you can check in for your WestJet flight as early as 24 hours before departure online or via the app, or 2 to 3 hours before at the airport depending on your flight. Always check your airport’s local rules and WestJet’s current travel policies for updates. By following WestJet’s recommended check-in and arrival guidelines, you’ll reduce stress and start your trip smoothly and on time.