Air France allows passengers to check in as early as 30 hours before the scheduled departure time for most flights. This applies to both online check-in through the Air France website and mobile app. For flights departing from the United States, specifically those operated by Delta or departing from airports such as Atlanta and Detroit, online check-in becomes available 24 hours prior to departure. Once check-in opens, passengers can select or modify their seat, add baggage, and download or print their boarding pass. The system remains open until the check-in deadline, which depends on the departure airport and destination. This early check-in window allows travelers to save time at the airport by completing formalities in advance and proceeding directly to baggage drop or security screening.

For those who prefer to check in at the airport, Air France typically opens its check-in counters 2 to 3 hours before flight time. For European and domestic flights within France, check-in counters usually open 2 hours before departure and close 40 to 60 minutes prior, depending on the specific airport. For long-haul international flights, it’s advisable to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure, as check-in counters may close 60 to 90 minutes before the flight, depending on the airport and destination country. In certain destinations such as Cayenne, Lagos, Nairobi, or Caracas, check-in may close as early as 75 to 120 minutes before departure, making early arrival at the airport essential.

In addition to staffed counters, many major airports served by Air France also provide self-service kiosks, where passengers can check in, print their boarding passes, and tag their checked baggage. These kiosks are generally available from the time the counters open until the official check-in closing time. Passengers with electronic boarding passes can go directly to security if they are traveling with hand luggage only, further speeding up the airport process. However, those who need to drop off checked bags or verify travel documents (such as visas) must do so at the counter within the check-in window.

Air France enforces strict deadlines for boarding gate closure, which also vary by destination. For domestic flights within France or departing from Paris Orly, the boarding gate typically closes 15 minutes before departure. For all other flights, including international and medium-haul routes, the boarding gate closes 20 minutes before takeoff. Failing to arrive at the gate before this time may result in denied boarding, even if the passenger has checked in on time.

To summarize, travelers flying with Air France can check in online or via the mobile app starting 30 hours before the flight (24 hours from select U.S. airports). Airport check-in counters generally open 2 to 3 hours before departure and close between 40 and 90 minutes before takeoff, depending on the flight route and location. Boarding gates close 15 to 20 minutes before departure, and passengers are advised to be at the airport well in advance to allow time for security, immigration, and gate procedures. Utilizing online check-in and arriving early at the airport helps ensure a smooth travel experience with Air France.