United Airlines has just announced a major change that will take effect on June 3, 2025. Starting on that date, everyone will need to check in at least 45 minutes before the flight, even if they don't have any checked baggage.
Do you always arrive just in time at the airport? You need to pay attention. Now, even if you run to the gate right before takeoff, you won't be allowed to board if you didn't check in within the new time limit.
United has already updated this policy on its website. This isn't a recommendation, but a mandatory rule for all domestic flights in the U.S.
Why are they doing this?
The reason is clear: to optimize ground operations. Airlines are looking for ways to cut costs without affecting punctuality. Knowing how many will fly allows United to better organize its staff, seats, and last-minute adjustments.
Another key point is overbooking, a very common practice. Airlines sell more tickets than there are seats, expecting that some passengers won't show up.
With this new rule, United will be able to identify real no-shows in advance and reduce conflicts at the boarding gate. In short: they want fewer surprises and more order.
What happens if you don't comply?
There's no room for error here. If you don't complete your check-in 45 minutes before departure, you automatically lose your seat, even if you run to the gate with your printed or mobile boarding pass.
The airline won't make exceptions. Not for frequent travelers, nor for those flying in business class. It also doesn't matter if you don't have any checked baggage, the system closes access and you won't be able to board.
This change forces you to rethink how you organize your trips to the airport. It's no longer just about avoiding security lines: now the process starts with check-in, and at a very specific time.
What you can do starting now
If you have a flight scheduled with United after June 3, start planning with more time. Here are some tips:
- Check in from your phone as soon as it's available, 24 hours before the flight.
- Arrive at the airport at least 1 hr. 30 min. (90 min.) early, even without bags.
- Set up alerts or reminders so you don't forget the new time limit.
- For international flights, check-in is still at 1 hr. (60 min.), but some destinations may require more time.
This change doesn't complicate the process, but it does move it earlier. Your flight now starts 45 minutes before, and if you're not ready, you could miss it with no option to appeal.