Originally Posted by
caspritz78
Just had to to notice that it is not possible to check-in internationally as a non-us citizen if you don't have an ESTA clearance. I could normally use the visa-waiver as I'm a German citizen but I have B1/2 visa so I can stay longer in the US. The US Airways does not let me to check-in because it can't find a ESTA clearance. Of course it can't - ESTA is not necessary if you have a visa! So it is back to old style counter check-in.
I don't think it's just US that's doing this. I'm flying on SWISS next week to London via ZRH and I had to put my passport info in for APIS when I booked the ticket. It says very clearly that if you're not a US/ Canadian citizen or are a VWP national with a valid ESTA showing (e.g. you have a different type of visa) then you'll have to check in at the airport with an agent on any flight to the US.