Always use online check-in (I learned it the hard way)
by Captain G on Feb.16, 2009, under Airlines
If you’re flying in the US, always check-in online as soon as you can.
Here are the reasons why:
- For Southwest, you can get a better seat and avoid boarding towards the end of the plane.
- For most carriers, you can pick an Exit row seat which is reserved for same day check-in if you don’t have status.
- As I have recently experienced on (ghetto) Delta, they actually give up your seat if you do not check-in 31 minutes before the actual flight. Delta is actually treating their Medallion Gold members this way, image when you do not have status.
Most airlines also have mobile sites that allows you to check-in via your phone. However most do not work too well. I actually tried to check-in via ghetto Delta’s online site and it failed me. The recent experience will definitely prompt a letter to management,
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February 20th, 2009 on 8:16 pm
Actually Southwest has the business select ticket. For a few more dollars (I think 10) over the refundable ticket price, you can secure priority for both security line and boarding. My colleagues are flying on SWA and they can check in day of and still get #2 position. For us too cheap to buy business select, you can check in 24 hrs in advance. This applies to all airlines.
I believe all airlines will give up your seat if you don’t check in 30 mins prior. I do agree you should always check in online the day before. Actually I check in any way possible even if I can’t print the ticket (ie via phone). That way at least you’re in the system. You can always request to reprint your ticket at the airport.