The check in is a legacy dating back to times when almost all tickets were unrestricted. An "are you coming or not" procedure was very necessary. Now that most tickets are non refundable and void if you don't cancel, the checkin process is just for distribution of boarding docs.
Do people really check in if they have no intention of flying?
Last edited by TravelerMSY; Apr 28, 2015 at 1:18 pm