You can check in for Virgin Atlantic flights online or via the mobile app starting 24 hours before departure and up to 70 minutes before the scheduled takeoff. This option allows you to select seats, enter passport details, and obtain your boarding pass. At the airport, check-in counters generally open 2 to 4 hours before departure, depending on the location, and close 60 minutes before the flight. Self-service kiosks, where available, typically open 2.5 hours before departure and also follow the 60-minute cut-off for bag drop. Virgin Atlantic also offers special early check-in services at select airports. For example, at Manchester Airport, “Twilight Check-In” allows passengers flying the next morning to check in the evening before, between 4 PM and 8 PM, helping avoid morning queues. In Orlando, an in-town check-in at Disney Springs is available, generally starting at least 3 hours before flight time. Passengers must be at the boarding gate no later than 30 minutes before departure. If you arrive later than this or after bag drop closes, you risk being denied boarding. Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class and Flying Club Gold passengers may have access to dedicated early check-in areas at airports like London Heathrow, offering a faster, more private check-in process. To avoid last-minute stress, it is recommended to arrive at the airport no later than 3 hours before departure for international flights, even if you’ve checked in online. Check-in policies and opening times may vary slightly depending on the airport, so always verify your specific departure location’s guidelines in advance. The general rule for all Virgin Atlantic flights is to complete check-in and bag drop procedures at least 60 to 70 minutes prior to departure and be ready at the boarding gate 30 minutes before the flight.