Kenya Airways Online Check-In Guide (2026)
Kenya Airways online check-in opens 30 hours before departure (24 hours for US flights) and closes 1 hour before international flights. You can check in via their website or the KQ Mobile app and get a digital boarding pass.
Page updated: August 2026
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Call to Check for a Last-Minute UpgradeCheck-In Timing
| Airline | Kenya Airways (KQ) |
|---|---|
| Check-In Opens | 30 hours before departure (24 hours for flights involving the United States) |
| Check-In Closes | 1 hour before departure for international flights, 30 minutes before departure for domestic flights |
| Check-In URL | https://www.kenya-airways.com/en/book-manage/post-booking/check-in/ |
| Mobile App | Kenya Airways app (iOS, Android) |
| Mobile Boarding Pass | Yes |
| Airport Kiosk | Yes |
Step-by-Step Check-In Guide
- Visit kenya-airways.com or open the KQ Mobile app
- Navigate to the Check-in section under Book & Manage
- Enter your 6-character booking reference (PNR) or e-ticket number and your last name
- Select your preferred seat (Economy Comfort, Extra Legroom, etc.)
- Confirm your details and download or print your boarding pass
- Drop off any checked baggage at the designated drop-off point at the airport
Documents Needed
Booking reference (6-character PNR) or e-ticket number, valid passport, and any required visas or health documents (e.g., eTA for Kenya).
Seat Selection
Passengers can select standard seats or pre-select chargeable seats such as Economy Comfort (34-inch pitch), Super Economy, Extra Leg-Room, or Preferred Seats.
International Check-In Rules
Passport details are required. Passengers must ensure they have the necessary visas and health documents (such as the eTA for travel to Kenya). Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure (24 hours for US flights) and closes 1 hour before departure.
Group Check-In
Group check-in is available for bookings with 10 or more passengers. Passengers travelling together can check in online using their booking reference.
Troubleshooting
1. 'Booking not found' - Ensure you are using the correct 6-character PNR and that the last name matches the booking exactly. 2. 'Phone number not accepted' - Verify the country code format is correct. 3. 'Seat selection unavailable' - This may happen on codeshare flights (e.g., Delta); you may need to check in with the operating carrier.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does online check-in open for Kenya Airways?
- Online check-in opens 30 hours before departure for most flights, and 24 hours before for flights involving the US.
- Can I select my seat during online check-in?
- Yes, you can select standard seats or purchase preferred seats like Economy Comfort or Extra Legroom.
- Do I need to print my boarding pass?
- You can print it or use a digital mobile boarding pass on your device.