Cathay Pacific is a leading airline offering various check-in options for travelers. However, each airline has its own set of rules, deadlines, and policies. It’s important for passengers to be aware of these to ensure a smooth travel experience. In this guide, we’ll cover the latest Cathay Pacific check-in policy, explore the available options for travelers, and provide tips and tricks to make your journey as seamless as possible.
Cathay Pacific Check-In Options
Here’s how you can check in with Cathay Pacific:
Online through CathayPacific.com
Using the Cathay Pacific mobile app
At an airport kiosk or check-in desk
Cathay Pacific Online Check-In
With Cathay Pacific, you can check in online via CathayPacific.com from 48 hours up to 1.5 hours before your flight's scheduled departure. For flights to or from the U.S., online check-in is available 24 hours to 1.5 hours before departure.
How to Check-In Online with Cathay Pacific
Checking in online with Cathay Pacific is easy and convenient. Here's a quick guide:
Visit the Website: Go to Cathay Pacific's homepage.
Start Check-In: Click on the "Check in" button.
Sign In:
If you have a Marco Polo Club, Asia Miles, or registered account, enter your membership number or username and password to sign in.
Alternatively, you can check in using your booking details by entering your first name, last name, and booking reference or e-ticket number, then click "Continue."
Complete Check-In:
Select your flight and follow the prompts to complete check-in.
You can download your mobile boarding pass, choose a seat, purchase additional baggage, and order a special meal.
For added convenience, you can also check in using your social media accounts like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, or WeChat.
Note: Online check-in is not available if:
You don’t have an e-ticket
You need medical assistance or a stretcher
You’ve requested a Cabin Baggage Occupying Seat or need an extra seat
You are part of a group booking or an unaccompanied minor
You need to make additional payments
How to Check In Using the Cathay Pacific Mobile App
Checking in through the Cathay Pacific mobile app is simple and convenient. Here’s how:
Open the App: Launch the Cathay Pacific app on your smartphone.
Start Check-In: Tap the "Check-in" button.
Select Your Flight: Choose your flight and follow the prompts.
Receive Your Boarding Pass: Once checked in, you’ll get an electronic boarding pass with a QR code. This QR code is essential for passing through security, boarding, and immigration.
Features of the Cathay Pacific Mobile App:
Flight Booking: Easily book your flights.
Check-In: Complete check-in and get your boarding pass.
Baggage Info: Access details about your baggage.
Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat.
Special Meals: Order special meals.
Flight Management: Cancel or manage your booking.
Flight Notifications: Stay updated with delays and gate changes.
Entertainment: Find out what's available on your flight, and watch programs on Cathay Dragon flights.
Marco Polo Club: Manage your account and claim lounge passes.
Digital Membership: Access your membership card and more.
Note: Mobile check-in is unavailable if:
You don't have an e-ticket
You need medical assistance or a stretcher
You’ve requested a Cabin Baggage Occupying Seat or need an extra seat
You’re on a group booking or an unaccompanied minor
Additional payments are required
Cathay Pacific Self-Service Kiosk Check-In
For a quick and easy check-in, use the Cathay Pacific self-service kiosks available at select airports. Here’s how it works:
Check-In Window: You can check in from 48 hours up to 50 minutes before your flight departs.
At the Kiosk:
Check In: Complete your check-in process.
Seat Selection: Choose your preferred seat.
Print Boarding Pass: Obtain your boarding pass.
Print Lounge Pass: Get your lounge pass if applicable.
After Check-In:
Bag Drop: If you have checked baggage, drop it off at the designated counter.
No Baggage?: Proceed directly to security and immigration, then head to your boarding gate.
Exceptions to Kiosk Check-In: You won't be able to use the kiosk if:
You have a paper ticket
You need medical assistance or a stretcher
You requested a Cabin Baggage Occupying Seat or need an extra seat
You're on a group booking or an unaccompanied minor
Additional payments are required
Cathay Pacific Airport Desk Check-In
When checking in at the airport with Cathay Pacific, it's important to arrive early to ensure a smooth process. Here’s what you need to know:
Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 2 hours before your flight’s departure.
Check-In Deadlines:
Hong Kong: At least 45 minutes before departure.
Riyadh and North America: At least 60 minutes before departure.
Major Cities (e.g., New York, London, Tel Aviv, Colombo, Dubai, Kolkata, Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai, Madrid): At least 70 minutes before departure.
Dubai: At least 75 minutes before departure.
This will give you ample time to check in, receive your boarding pass, and proceed through security and immigration.
How to Check-In at the Airport Desk
Checking in at the airport with Cathay Pacific is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps for the better experience:
Proceed to the Check-In Desk: Go to the Cathay Pacific check-in desk for your flight.
Present Documents: Show your ticket and travel documents.
Check In Your Luggage: Hand over your luggage, ensuring it is properly labeled and tagged according to Cathay Pacific’s baggage policies. Collect your baggage receipts.
Verify Your Boarding Pass: Check that your boarding pass has the correct information, such as your name, flight number, and destination.
Complete Procedures: Ensure all necessary procedures are completed in time.
Arrive at the Gate Early: Reach the boarding gate with at least 30 minutes remaining before departure.
Cathay Pacific Check-In Times
Online Check-In: Available from 48 hours to 1.5 hours before your flight’s departure (24 hours for U.S. flights). Check in via the Cathay Pacific website or mobile app.
Mobile App Check-In: Same as online check-in times—48 hours to 1.5 hours prior for most flights, and 24 hours to 1.5 hours prior for flights to/from LA, Chicago, San Francisco, and New York. Your mobile boarding pass will be sent to your device.
Kiosk Check-In: Available from 48 hours to 50 minutes before departure. Check in, print your boarding pass, and proceed to the bag drop counter.
In-Town Check-In (Temporarily Suspended): Was available at Kowloon, Hong Kong, or Tsing Yi Airport Express stations from 24 hours to 90 minutes prior to departure.
Airport Desk Check-In Times
Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of your flight. Make sure to check in and drop off your luggage by the following times:
Hong Kong: 45 minutes before departure.
Riyadh and North America: 60 minutes before departure.
Major Cities (e.g., New York, London, Tel Aviv, Colombo, Dubai, Kolkata, Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai, Madrid): 70 minutes before departure.
Dubai: 75 minutes before departure.
Cathay Pacific International Check-In Times
Online Check-In: Available from 48 hours to 1.5 hours before departure for most flights. For flights to/from LA, Chicago, San Francisco, or New York, check in from 24 hours to 1.5 hours before departure.
Mobile App Check-In: Same time frames as online check-in.
Self-Service Kiosk: Check in from 48 hours to 50 minutes before your flight.
In-Town Office (Temporarily Suspended): Previously allowed check-in at Kowloon, Hong Kong, or Tsing Yi Airport Express stations from 24 hours to 1.5 hours before departure, with bag drop-off up to 150 minutes before departure.
Airport Desk Check-In: Arrive at least 2 hours before your flight. Ensure you check in and collect your boarding pass by the following times:
45 minutes before departure from Hong Kong.
60 minutes before departure from Riyadh or North America.
70 minutes before departure from major cities like New York, London, Tel Aviv, Colombo, Dubai, Kolkata, Shanghai, Beijing, Mumbai, and Madrid.
75 minutes before departure from Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions On Cathay Pacific Check-In Policy
Is the Cathay Pacific online check-in 24 hours or 48 hours?
As per Cathay Pacific Check-In Policy, the passengers are requested to check in 24-48 hours before their scheduled flight time.
What is the check-in baggage allowance for Cathay Pacific flights?
Cathay Pacific's check-in baggage allowance varies by class and route:
Economy Class:
Light Fares: 1 piece up to 23 kg.
Essential and Flex Fares: 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg.
Premium Economy Class: 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg.
Business Class:
2 pieces, each up to 32 kg.
For flights between Hong Kong and New Zealand, the allowance is 3 pieces, each up to 23 kg.
First Class: 3 pieces, each up to 23 kg.
For specific details on allowances for your flight, please refer to your ticket or contact Cathay Pacific customer service.
Is there a limit for check-in luggage in Cathay Pacific?
According to Cathay Pacific's check-in policy, passengers are not permitted to carry any single bag that exceeds 32 kg (70 lbs) in weight or 203 cm (80 inches) in total dimensions.
When can I do a Cathay Pacific online check-in?
Sign up today to benefit from priority online check-in up to 48 hours before departure and manage your booking whenever you need.
Can we check-in baggage online on Cathay Pacific?
Online check-in is available for passengers with checked baggage as well.