When preparing for your upcoming journey with LATAM Airlines, one of the most common and important questions travelers ask is, "How long before my LATAM flight can I check in?" Understanding the airline’s check-in policy helps ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience. LATAM offers a convenient and flexible check-in process for both domestic and international flights, giving passengers ample time to complete the necessary steps before departure.
LATAM Airlines allows passengers to check in online as early as 48 hours before the scheduled departure time. This option is available via the LATAM website or the mobile app and is the preferred method for many frequent travelers. Online check-in remains open until 1 hour before departure for domestic flights and typically up to 75 minutes before departure for international flights. This allows travelers the flexibility to check in from the comfort of their home, office, or even while on the move, which saves valuable time at the airport.
Checking in early online has many advantages. Not only does it give travelers the opportunity to choose their seats in advance, but it also allows them to receive digital boarding passes, review baggage policies, and avoid long queues at airport counters. This is especially helpful for those who are traveling with carry-on luggage only and can head straight to security upon arriving at the airport.
For those who prefer or need to check in at the airport, LATAM opens its check-in counters typically 2 to 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, it's strongly recommended that travelers arrive at the airport at least 90 minutes in advance, while for international flights, the recommendation is to arrive at least 3 hours prior to departure. These guidelines ensure enough time to check in bags, complete security checks, and navigate through larger or unfamiliar airport terminals.
It’s also worth noting that passengers on connecting flights or flying with codeshare partners may need to confirm specific check-in requirements depending on the airport and destination. LATAM’s customer service team, reachable at +1-866-551-1186, is available to assist with any check-in questions, baggage concerns, or flight updates. They provide reliable support for travelers who want added clarity or who face last-minute changes.
By checking in early—whether online or in person—travelers benefit from reduced stress and increased confidence before their flight. It also provides time to correct any booking issues or document mismatches, which can be crucial for international travelers who need to ensure passport and visa validity.
In conclusion, LATAM Airlines gives passengers a generous window to check in starting 48 hours before flight time, with clear cutoffs of 1 to 1.5 hours before departure depending on the flight type. To get the best travel experience, it is recommended to use the online check-in system early and arrive at the airport with ample time. This proactive approach guarantees a more relaxed and organized journey with LATAM, especially during busy travel seasons.