Hainan Airlines Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Hainan Airlines online check-in opens 24 hours before departure and closes 1 hour before domestic flights and 5 hours before international flights. For international flights, passengers must still proceed to the airport counter for document verification and to collect a physical boarding pass.
Check-In Timing
| Airline | Hainan Airlines (HU) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 24 hours before departure |
| Check-In Closes | 1 hour before domestic flights, 5 hours before international and regional flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.hainanairlines.com/US/US/Home |
| Mobile App | Hainan Airlines app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
1. Visit the Hainan Airlines official website or open the mobile app. 2. Select the "Check-in" tab and enter your ID type (e.g., Passport, ID card) and ID number, along with your name. 3. Select the passengers you wish to check in. 4. Choose your preferred seat from the available options. 5. Confirm your details and complete the check-in process. 6. For international flights, proceed to the airport check-in counter to verify documents and collect your physical boarding pass.
Documents Needed
Valid passport, visa (if required for destination), booking reference or e-ticket number. For residents of Mainland China, Resident Identity Card is accepted for domestic flights.
Seat Selection
Seat selection is available during online check-in. Business and First Class passengers get free seat selection. Economy passengers can select seats, but fees may apply for preferred seats (ranging around $10-$30 depending on the route).
International Check-In Rules
For international and regional flights, online check-in requires document verification at the airport. Passengers must arrive at the airport check-in counter before the boarding cutoff time to have their travel documents (passport, visa) verified and to receive a physical boarding pass. Online check-in is not available for some international routes.
Group Check-In
For group bookings, the primary passenger can use the master PNR to check-in online with Hainan Airlines. Boarding passes are generated for all passengers under the same booking reference.
Troubleshooting
1. "Unable to check in online" - Often occurs for international flights due to document verification requirements. Proceed to the airport counter. 2. "Cannot check in for connecting flight" - Online check-in may only work for the first leg of the journey, especially if the connection involves a partner airline or requires rechecking baggage in China. 3. "Booking not found" - Ensure you are using the correct 6-character PNR or e-ticket number and that the name matches exactly as booked.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I get a mobile boarding pass for my international flight?
- No, for international flights, you must proceed to the check-in counter to verify your documents and collect a physical boarding pass, even if you checked in online.
- When does online check-in open for Hainan Airlines?
- Online check-in opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for most flights.
- Can I check in online if I am traveling with an infant?
- No, online check-in is not available for adults traveling with infants or unaccompanied minors. You must check in at the airport counter.