If you’re flying with Cathay Pacific, it’s helpful to know exactly when you can check in online. Cathay Pacific online check-in opens 48 hours before your flight and closes 90 minutes before departure. This 48-hour check-in window applies to most flights operated by Cathay Pacific, giving travelers plenty of time to confirm their seat, enter passport details, and prepare travel documents. You can check in using the Cathay Pacific website or mobile app, which are both user-friendly. Just enter your booking reference and last name to start. Once you check in online, you can choose to receive a mobile boarding pass, print it out, or email it for easy access. Online check-in helps save time at the airport, especially for those flying with hand luggage only. If you don’t need to check bags, you can skip the check-in counter and go directly to airport security and your boarding gate. If you have baggage, you still need to visit the bag drop counter, which usually opens about 3 hours before departure and closes 60 minutes before the flight. For busy international airports like Hong Kong, London Heathrow, or San Francisco, early check-in is useful to avoid long lines. However, some passengers may not be able to check in online. This includes travelers who need special assistance, are flying with pets, are part of a group booking, or need to show a visa for their destination. These passengers should arrive early and check in at the airport counter. The same applies if you're flying on a code-share flight operated by a partner airline. Checking in online as soon as the 48-hour window opens is a smart way to get better seat options, especially in Economy Class. It also helps reduce stress on your travel day. Business Class, First Class, and Marco Polo Club members enjoy extra perks, such as priority check-in, but online check-in is still available to all fare types. Cathay Pacific also sends check-in reminders by email or through the app, so it’s easy to stay updated. If you forget to check in online, you can still do it at the airport, but you’ll need to arrive early to avoid missing cut-off times. Airport counters generally close 60 minutes before international flights and 40 minutes before regional flights. Arriving at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights or 90 minutes for regional routes is highly recommended. In summary, Cathay Pacific’s online check-in opens 48 hours before departure and gives passengers more flexibility, better seat choice, and a faster airport experience. This early check-in window helps reduce wait times, especially at busy airports. To enjoy smoother travel, always check in as early as possible and have all your documents ready.