Delta Air Lines Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Delta Air Lines online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights. You can check in via delta.com, the Fly Delta app, or at airport kiosks.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | Delta Air Lines (DL) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-In Closes | 45 minutes before domestic flights, 60 minutes before international flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.delta.com/us/en/check-in-security/overview |
| Mobile App | Fly Delta app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit delta.com or open the Fly Delta app. 2. Select 'Check In' and enter your confirmation number, SkyMiles number, or credit card number. 3. Review your itinerary and add any checked bags. 4. Select or change your seat if applicable. 5. Pay any baggage fees. 6. Download or print your boarding pass.
Documents Needed
Confirmation number, SkyMiles number, or eTicket number. For international flights, a valid passport and any required visas or travel documents (like APIS information) are required.
Seat Selection
Seat selection is available during check-in. Basic Economy (Main Basic) passengers will be assigned a seat for free after check-in or at the gate, or can purchase a seat assignment in advance for a fee. Other cabins can select available seats for free.
International Check-In Rules
Passport details are required via APIS. You may not receive a digital boarding pass until your passport and visa (if applicable) are verified at the airport. Delta FlyReady can be used to verify documents in advance.
Group Check-In
Groups of 10 or more passengers traveling together can check in at the airport. For smaller groups on the same reservation, you can check in multiple passengers at once during the online check-in process.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Unable to check in online' - Often due to international document verification requirements; proceed to the airport. 2. 'Reservation not found' - Ensure you are using the correct 6-character alphanumeric confirmation code. 3. 'Check-in not available' - You may be trying to check in more than 24 hours before departure, or it's a codeshare flight operated by a partner airline.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When can I check in for my Delta flight?
- Online check-in opens 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
- Can I check in at the airport?
- Yes, you can check in at a self-service kiosk or with a Delta agent at the ticket counter.
- What if I have bags to check?
- You can pay for checked bags during online check-in and drop them off at the bag drop counter at the airport.
- Why can't I check in online for my international flight?
- You may need to have your passport or visa verified by an agent at the airport before a boarding pass can be issued.