To check in for an Iberia flight, passengers have multiple convenient options, starting with online and mobile check-in. Iberia allows travelers to check in online or through the Iberia mobile app beginning 24 hours before the scheduled departure time for most routes. This service remains available until 1 hour before departure and enables passengers to select or change seats, add checked baggage, and receive a digital or printable boarding pass. For flights departing from the U.S., the UK, Mexico, China, Cuba, and Puerto Rico, the check-in window also opens exactly 24 hours before departure. However, for certain destinations such as Morocco, Egypt, the Maldives, and Albania, passengers are required to check in at the airport even if they’ve already completed online check-in, due to local regulations.

If passengers prefer or need to check in at the airport, Iberia offers both self-service kiosks and staffed check-in counters. Airport kiosks usually open about 2 to 3 hours before departure and can be used to print boarding passes and bag tags. For passengers checking in at the desk, counters typically open 3 hours before takeoff, and for flights to or from the U.S. and Latin America, check-in may begin up to 4 hours before departure. The closing time for airport check-in desks is usually 45 to 60 minutes before departure, although some long-haul flights may have stricter requirements. For instance, check-in for flights to Caracas must be completed at least 2 hours before departure, and passengers traveling from Madrid to the U.S. are advised to arrive 4 hours before their flight and expect gate closure 90 minutes before departure.

Boarding gates for Iberia flights typically close 20 minutes before departure, so passengers should be at the gate well in advance. If you have checked in online and are not checking bags, you can proceed directly to security with your mobile or printed boarding pass, although it’s still recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 to 3 hours before international flights. Passengers requiring special assistance or traveling with pets, infants, or special documents must check in at the counter. In these cases, online or mobile check-in is not sufficient. Overall, Iberia’s check-in process is designed to be flexible, but understanding the timing based on your route and airport is crucial to avoid delays or missed flights.