Singapore Airlines Check-In Policy (Online, Mobile, Airport & Baggage Rules)
Singapore Airlines is known for its smooth airport experience and premium service standards. Still, travelers must follow the official Singapore Airlines check-in policy to avoid last-minute stress, missed deadlines, or boarding issues. Whether we check in online, through the mobile app, or directly at the airport counter, understanding check-in timing, baggage drop procedures, and document requirements ensures a seamless journey.
This guide explains everything we need to know about Singapore Airlines check-in, including deadlines, check-in methods, baggage rules, and important tips for international travel.
Singapore Airlines Check-In Options
Singapore Airlines provides several convenient check-in methods, allowing us to choose the most suitable option based on our route, travel needs, and airport facilities. The main check-in options include:
Online check-in
Mobile app check-in
Airport counter check-in
Self-service kiosk check-in (available at select airports)
Early check-in services (only at certain locations)
Each option works efficiently, but travelers must always follow strict check-in closing times.
Singapore Airlines Online Check-In Policy
The Singapore Airlines online check-in process is one of the fastest ways to secure a boarding pass and reduce airport waiting time.
Online Check-In Time
Online check-in generally opens:
48 hours before departure
And closes:
1.5 hours before departure (for most flights)
Once checked in, we can download or print the boarding pass and proceed directly to baggage drop if we have checked luggage.
What We Can Do During Online Check-In
Online check-in typically allows us to:
Confirm passenger and flight details
Choose or adjust seating (based on fare conditions)
Access a digital boarding pass
Add frequent flyer details
Review baggage allowance
Online check-in is ideal for travelers with carry-on baggage only or those who want faster airport processing.
Singapore Airlines Mobile Check-In Policy
Singapore Airlines also supports mobile check-in through its official mobile app. Mobile check-in follows the same time window as online check-in and offers a digital boarding pass that can be stored on a phone.
Mobile Check-In Benefits
Mobile check-in helps us:
Avoid printing paperwork
Keep travel details accessible
Move faster through airport processes
Reduce time spent at check-in counters
Singapore Airlines Airport Check-In Policy
For travelers who prefer traditional service, Singapore Airlines offers airport check-in through staffed counters.
Recommended Airport Arrival Time
To ensure enough time for baggage drop, immigration, and security, we should arrive:
3 hours before international flights
2 hours before shorter regional flights (depending on airport size)
Airport check-in is strongly recommended for travelers who require document checks, visa verification, or special assistance.
Singapore Airlines Check-In Deadlines (Important Rules)
Singapore Airlines enforces strict check-in deadlines. Missing the check-in cutoff may result in denied boarding or ticket changes.
Standard Check-In Closing Time
In most airports, Singapore Airlines check-in closes:
60 minutes before departure
However, some airports may require passengers to complete check-in 75 to 90 minutes before departure, depending on local airport rules.
Boarding Gate Closing Time
Even after check-in, we must reach the gate early. Boarding gates may close:
15 to 20 minutes before departure
Arriving late at the gate can still result in missed boarding, even if check-in was completed.
Singapore Airlines Self-Service Kiosk Check-In
At select airports, Singapore Airlines provides self-service kiosks that allow us to:
Check in quickly
Print boarding passes
Print baggage tags
Proceed to bag drop
Self-service kiosks are useful during peak travel hours when check-in counters have long queues.
Singapore Airlines Baggage Drop Policy After Online Check-In
Even after completing online check-in, passengers with luggage must drop bags at the airport.
How Bag Drop Works
After online or mobile check-in, we must:
Go to the Singapore Airlines bag drop counter
Submit checked baggage
Collect baggage receipts
Proceed to security and immigration
Bag Drop Closing Time
Bag drop counters typically close:
60 minutes before departure
We should always reach baggage drop at least 90 minutes before departure to avoid delays.
Singapore Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance Overview
Singapore Airlines baggage allowance depends on several factors, including:
Cabin class
Fare type
Route rules
KrisFlyer membership level
Singapore Airlines generally applies two baggage systems:
Weight concept (common across many international routes)
Piece concept (often used for travel to/from the USA and Canada)
Premium cabins such as Business Class and First Class typically include higher baggage allowances.
Singapore Airlines Carry-On (Cabin Baggage) Policy
Singapore Airlines enforces clear cabin baggage rules to maintain comfort and safety onboard.
Most passengers are allowed:
One main cabin bag
One personal item (such as a laptop bag or handbag)
Cabin baggage weight and size limits may vary depending on cabin class and route, so checking the latest allowance before travel is always recommended.
Singapore Airlines Check-In Policy for International Flights
International flights require additional planning because travelers must meet passport and entry requirements.
Even if we check in online, Singapore Airlines may require:
Passport verification at the airport
Visa validation for restricted destinations
Document checks for transit routes
To avoid delays, we should keep all travel documents accessible and ensure the passport matches the booking details.
Singapore Airlines Check-In for Codeshare Flights
For codeshare flights, check-in procedures may differ because the operating airline may manage the airport process. In these cases:
The operating airline may control check-in counters
Baggage rules may vary
Airport signage may show the partner airline name
We should confirm flight operating details before arriving at the airport.
Final Thoughts on Singapore Airlines Check-In Policy
The Singapore Airlines check-in policy is designed to provide a flexible and efficient travel experience, offering online check-in, mobile check-in, airport counters, and self-service kiosks. The most important step is respecting check-in and baggage drop deadlines, especially for international travel where documentation checks may be required.
By planning ahead, checking in early, and arriving at the airport on time, we can ensure a smooth Singapore Airlines journey from check-in to boarding.