Originally Posted by
bocastephen
Unless you're checking a bag, avoiding contact with a UA employee until boarding (or entering the lounge) is a feature, not a bug. The less interaction, the lower the risk something will go wrong. Always check-in online - there is no downside.
From the US, you can go to one of the machines at the airport, scan your passport, and get your boarding pass(es) in less than 30 seconds. I have found this to be quicker than doing it yourself on the app, or online.
From outside the US, depending on the country of origin, sometimes you can check-in, but you might still need to see an airport personnel anyway to get the boarding pass, SSSS or not.