When traveling with EGYPTAIR, one of the most important things to know is how early you can check in for your flight. Having traveled with EGYPTAIR several times, I’ve had the chance to experience its check-in process both online and at the airport—and it has proven to be fairly efficient and convenient when done with proper timing.

EGYPTAIR’s online check-in service opens 48 hours before departure and closes 90 minutes before the scheduled takeoff. This window gives passengers ample time to check in at their own pace from the comfort of home or on the go using a smartphone or computer. All you need is your booking reference and last name. I’ve found this method extremely helpful, especially when traveling without checked luggage, as it allows you to skip the check-in desk and head straight to the security gate. The process is smooth, and the airline even lets you choose your seat, add frequent flyer details, and receive your boarding pass digitally.

For those with checked baggage or special travel requirements, EGYPTAIR recommends arriving at the airport 3 hours before international flights and at least 2 hours before domestic flights. During my last international flight from Cairo to London, I arrived 3.5 hours early and was able to go through the check-in process and security screening comfortably. The airport check-in counters typically open 3 hours before departure and close 1 hour before takeoff. It's important to keep in mind that late arrivals are not entertained beyond this time, especially on busy routes.

One useful feature I appreciated was the self-service kiosks available at select international airports. They allowed me to quickly print my boarding pass and baggage tag, which I then dropped off at the designated bag drop counter. This cut down waiting time significantly. Not every airport has these kiosks, but where available, they’re a real time-saver.

For premium passengers or frequent flyers holding EGYPTAIR Plus membership or Star Alliance Gold status, there are dedicated check-in counters which offer a faster, more streamlined process. I once used this service on a Business Class ticket, and it made a notable difference in how quickly I was able to get through the line.

Another tip from personal experience: always double-check the terminal and gate details, as these may sometimes change, especially in busy airports like Cairo International. Even if you've checked in online, giving yourself extra time to clear security and find your gate is essential.

In summary, you can check-in online with EGYPTAIR starting 48 hours before your flight, and airport check-in typically begins 3 hours prior for international routes. Arriving early ensures you’ll navigate any queues or potential delays with ease. EGYPTAIR provides a reliable and well-organized check-in experience when you follow the recommended timelines. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or flying with them for the first time, knowing the check-in schedule makes the entire journey much more relaxed and efficient.