Ethiopian Airlines provides a range of check-in options designed to accommodate the diverse needs of its passengers, ensuring a smooth and efficient travel experience. The airline offers online check-in, which opens 48 hours prior to the scheduled departure time and closes 2 hours before the flight. This service is available for most flights and allows passengers to complete their check-in process conveniently from their computer or mobile device. By using the airline’s official website or mobile app, travelers can enter their booking reference and last name to retrieve their reservation, select preferred seats, and obtain a digital or printable boarding pass. This early check-in window gives passengers the flexibility to plan ahead and avoid long queues at the airport. However, there are some exceptions where online check-in is not available. Specifically, flights departing from Bamako in Mali, Moscow in Russia, and Ndjamena in Chad do not offer online check-in, requiring passengers to check in at the airport.

For those who prefer or need to check in at the airport, Ethiopian Airlines operates check-in counters that open three hours before the scheduled departure time for international flights and close one hour before departure. This time frame allows passengers to complete all necessary procedures, including document verification, seat assignment, and baggage drop-off. Passengers traveling to and from the United States are advised to arrive even earlier, as Ethiopian Airlines recommends reporting at the airport at least four hours prior to departure. This additional time helps manage the more stringent security and immigration requirements typically encountered on U.S.-bound flights.

Passengers with checked baggage should also be mindful of the recommended arrival times. For international flights, it is advisable to arrive at the airport at least one hour before departure to ensure sufficient time for baggage drop and security screening. For domestic flights within Ethiopia, arriving at least 45 minutes before departure is recommended. Adhering to these timelines helps prevent last-minute delays and ensures that all boarding procedures are completed smoothly.

Certain passenger categories require special attention regarding check-in. Ethiopian Airlines does not permit online check-in for passengers requiring special assistance, such as unaccompanied minors, travelers needing medical support, or those whose travel documents require additional verification. These passengers must complete their check-in at the airport, where staff are available to provide the necessary support and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Self-service kiosks are available at select airports, providing another convenient option for passengers. These kiosks enable travelers to check in, print boarding passes, and obtain baggage tags without waiting in line at the counter. They are particularly useful for passengers who have already completed online check-in but need to finalize baggage procedures.

In summary, Ethiopian Airlines offers a flexible and passenger-friendly check-in system. Online check-in opens 48 hours before departure and closes 2 hours prior for most flights, while airport counters open 3 hours before departure and close 1 hour before. For U.S.-bound flights, passengers should arrive 4 hours early. Travelers with special needs must check in at the airport. Arriving early and choosing the appropriate check-in method based on individual circumstances helps ensure a seamless travel experience with Ethiopian Airlines.