When flying with Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), knowing how early you can check in is key to enjoying a stress-free airport experience. SAS offers a variety of check-in options to accommodate different types of travelers, from frequent flyers to first-time passengers. Whether you choose to check in online, via mobile, or at the airport, SAS has made the process straightforward and efficient.
Online check-in with SAS opens 30 hours before your scheduled departure time, except for flights to and from the United States, which open 24 hours before departure. This is one of the earliest online check-in windows offered by a major airline and gives passengers plenty of time to organize their travel. The process is simple: visit the official SAS website or open the SAS app, enter your booking reference and last name, and follow the steps to select your seat and receive your digital boarding pass. You can either print your boarding pass or store it digitally on your phone. For travelers with carry-on luggage only, this means you can go straight to security upon arriving at the airport.
For those with checked baggage, SAS still encourages online check-in, allowing passengers to use dedicated bag drop counters at the airport. These typically open 2 hours before departure for European flights and 3 hours before departure for intercontinental flights. Dropping your bag is usually a quick process, especially if you arrive early and use automated kiosks where available.
If you prefer in-person service or need special assistance, airport check-in counters are also available. For most flights, these counters open 2 to 3 hours before departure and close 45 minutes before European flights and 60 minutes before intercontinental flights. It's always smart to check the exact guidelines for your departure airport, as times can vary slightly depending on location. At major SAS hubs like Copenhagen (CPH), Stockholm Arlanda (ARN), and Oslo Gardermoen (OSL), the process is generally very smooth, with helpful staff and clear signage.
SAS also provides self-service kiosks at many airports, allowing passengers to check in, print boarding passes, and print baggage tags quickly. These kiosks are a great alternative for travelers who want to save time but still need to check a bag or update their seat assignment.
Premium passengers flying in SAS Plus or SAS Business, or those with EuroBonus Gold or Diamond status, can enjoy priority check-in lanes and access to SAS lounges at select airports, enhancing the check-in experience further.
In conclusion, SAS offers flexible and early check-in options that begin as early as 30 hours before your flight via online or mobile platforms. Airport check-in and baggage drop usually open 2–3 hours before departure. Online check-in is highly recommended for a quicker experience, especially for travelers with no checked bags. SAS’s clear policies and user-friendly systems ensure a smooth check-in process, whether you're flying short-haul within Europe or long-haul overseas