Aer Lingus Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Aer Lingus online check-in opens 48 hours before European flights and 24 hours before transatlantic flights, closing 60-95 minutes before departure. You can check in via the Aer Lingus app or website using your 6-character booking reference.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | Aer Lingus (EI) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 48 hours before departure for flights within Europe (15 days for Plus/Advantage/AerSpace fares or Saver with purchased seat); 24 hours before departure for transatlantic flights |
| Check-In Closes | 60 minutes before departure for most European flights; 1 hour 35 minutes before departure for transatlantic flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.aerlingus.com/prepare/check-in-options/online/ |
| Mobile App | Aer Lingus app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit aerlingus.com or open the Aer Lingus app. 2. Enter your 6-character booking reference and family name. 3. Manage your bags and select or confirm your seats. 4. Add any Advance Passenger Information (API) if required. 5. Save your boarding pass to your device, Apple Wallet, or print it as a PDF. 6. If you have checked bags, use a self-service Express Bag Drop Kiosk or check-in desk at the airport.
Documents Needed
Booking reference (6-character PNR), valid passport or Irish Passport Card for international travel, and ESTA/Visa for US-bound flights.
Seat Selection
Seat selection is available. Saver fare customers are randomly allocated a seat for free during digital check-in and cannot change it later. Standard seats start from €4.99, Extra Legroom from €19.99, and Preferred from €18.99 for European flights. Transatlantic seats range from €44.99 to €74.99.
International Check-In Rules
Advance Passenger Information (API) must be provided at check-in using the travel document you will present at the airport. For transatlantic flights, passport details are mandatory.
Group Check-In
Groups of 7 to 25 people can be booked online. However, app check-in is not available for group bookings of 7 or more customers; they must use the website or check in at the airport.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Online check in is not available' - Usually means you need to check in at the airport desk for document verification. 2. 'App won't allow online check in' - The app does not support check-in for group bookings (7+ people); use the website instead. 3. 'Check in only available for children' - A known glitch; try checking in at the airport.