From 24 hours to 60 minutes to the departure.
Japan Airlines (JAL) Check-In: How Early You Can Check In and What to Expect
Japan Airlines (JAL), known for its world-class service and efficiency, offers a variety of check-in methods tailored to different passenger needs and travel preferences. Whether you're flying domestically within Japan or internationally to destinations across Asia, Europe, or North America, understanding the check-in timing and process helps make your travel experience stress-free and smooth.
How Early Can You Check in for Japan Airlines Flights?
The timing of check-in for Japan Airlines depends on the flight type (domestic or international) and the method of check-in (online, mobile app, airport counter, or kiosk). Here's a complete breakdown:
1. Online and Mobile Check-In
Online check-in is one of the most efficient ways to check in for your JAL flight. Available for most domestic and international flights, it allows travelers to complete check-in from home, select or confirm their seats, and receive a mobile or printable boarding pass.
Opens: 24 hours before scheduled departure (for international flights)
Closes: 60 minutes before departure (for international); 20 minutes before departure (for domestic)
After checking in online, you can either print your boarding pass or save it on your mobile device. If you’re traveling with carry-on baggage only, you may proceed directly to security. If you have checked luggage, head to the bag drop counter at the airport.
Note: Online check-in is not available if:
Your flight is a code-share operated by another airline.
You're traveling with infants, need special assistance, or have a complex itinerary.
Your ticket was issued manually (paper ticket or group booking).
2. Airport Counter Check-In
JAL airport counters offer full-service check-in for both domestic and international flights. This option is best suited for passengers who:
Need to check in manually
Require help with visas or documentation
Are traveling with pets or special assistance
Are on itineraries involving multiple airlines or ticket complexities
International Flights:
Counter opens: 3 hours before scheduled departure
Counter closes: 60 minutes before departure (at most airports)
Domestic Flights within Japan:
Counter opens: Approximately 2 hours before departure
Counter closes: 30 minutes before flight (some rural airports may close earlier)
JAL recommends arriving at least 2.5 to 3 hours early for international flights and 90 minutes before domestic flights to avoid any last-minute complications.
3. Self-Service Kiosks
Available at major airports like Tokyo Haneda, Narita, Osaka Kansai, and others, Japan Airlines’ kiosks allow travelers to:
Check in
Select or change seats
Print boarding passes
Print baggage tags
Kiosks are typically available from the time the check-in counters open (3 hours before departure) until 60 minutes prior to flight departure.
Best suited for:
Travelers with simple itineraries
Passengers who already checked in online but need to print documents
Those with checked baggage who want to speed up the bag drop process
4. Domestic Check-In: Touch & Go Service
For flights within Japan, JAL offers a unique “Touch & Go” service. If you’ve checked in online and aren’t checking baggage, you can skip the check-in counter entirely.
Simply head to security and scan your 2D barcode, mobile boarding pass, [1-86 655 111 86
or IC card (if you’re a JAL Mileage Bank member). This system is designed for ultimate speed and convenience.
Touch & Go Timeline:
Check-in deadline: 20 minutes before departure
Gate arrival deadline: Be at your gate at least 10 minutes before departure
5. Baggage Drop: Know the Timing
Even if you check in online, if you have checked luggage, you must arrive early to use the baggage drop service.
International flights: Baggage must be checked in at least 60 minutes before departure
Domestic flights: Baggage cut-off is typically 30 minutes prior to flight time
Summary of JAL Check-In Timings
Flight Type Method Opens Closes
International Online / Mobile 24 hours before departure 60 minutes before departure
Airport Counter 3 hours before departure 60 minutes before departure
Kiosk 3 hours before departure 60 minutes before departure
Domestic (Japan) Online / Mobile 24 hours before departure 20 minutes before departure
Airport Counter 2 hours before departure 30 minutes before departure
Touch & Go N/A 20 minutes before departure
Travel Tips for a Smooth JAL Check-In
Check Passport & Visa Requirements: Especially for international routes, ensure your travel documents are in order before you attempt online check-in.
Download the JAL App: Offers easy access to your boarding pass, flight status, and last-minute updates.
Arrive Early: Even if you’re checked in, reach the airport well in advance—especially during holidays or peak seasons.
Use Touch & Go for Domestic Travel: It’s a highly efficient way to breeze through check-in and reach your gate quickly.
Know Your Luggage Limits: Overweight or excess baggage could require additional time and payment at the counter.
Need Help? Contact JAL
If you encounter issues with check-in, Japan Airlines offers customer support in multiple languages:
JAL International Reservations (English):
From Japan: [1-86 655 111 86