New Standardized Check-In/Bag Drop Times for British Airways

Stragglers take note: BA has standardized its departure time in a drive to increase punctuality.

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to air travel. Given this, it’s not surprising to learn that in an effort to increase punctuality, British Airways (BA) has decided to standardize its check-in and bag drop times.

This means that U.K. domestic and short-haul passengers must check-in and drop-off their luggage no later than 45 minutes before departure. For long-haul passengers, check-in and drop-off can take place up to an hour before departure time.

However, there are exceptions to this new rule, and desks at London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW) airports now close 45 minutes before departure. Stragglers at London City Airport (LCY), however, can rejoice; the desk there will remain open up to 20 minutes before departure.

Regardless of the length of their flight, all passengers will still be able to check-in online or via their mobile device from 24 hours and up to an hour before departure time.

BA has also advised that its OpenSkies check-in desks at Paris Orly Airport (ORY), New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) will close 50 minutes before a flight’s scheduled departure time. Of course, the carrier has also advised that all passengers must have their boarding passes prior to check-in.

A BA spokesman commented on the changes, saying, “We have decided to standardize the check-in closure times for as many of our flights as possible to help enhance our punctuality, which we know is important to customers. Customers will be able to check their precise check-in and baggage drop times on our Manage My Booking website and they will also be informed by emails in the days before their departure.”

[Photo: Getty]