1965

I need my memory refreshed. When I do an online check in for an international flight & print my boarding pass at home, I can skip the airline check in desk, go straight to security, and that's when my passport will be checked. Correct? Thanks.

DebitNM

I *think* you always have to go to airline check in desk. The airline is responsible for checking your passport, not TSA. The TSA just uses your passport for ID purposes [same as your drivers license would do]. They aren't looking at expiration date etc which is what check in desk does.

I guess you aren't planning to check any luggage? If you were going to check luggage, you'd have to go to desk regardless.

tripplanner001

If you are not checking luggage and have a printed boarding pass, then, yes, you can do straight to your gate. There is no need to stop at the check-in counter. The airline agents will check your passports and any required visas at the gate, usually an hour or so prior to boarding.

rkkwan

Depends on airline and whether you have scanned your passport with them prior, you may or may not be able to print a BP. For example, on UA, you may get a printout that says "This is not a boarding pass" after you've completed online check-in and try to print.

Shar

with so many different opinions. Why not check with the airline itself to be safe.

doug_stallings

Some but not all airlines require you to check in at a kiosk or show your passport even if you aren't checking a bag. Some have a special web check-in desk that expedites the process. You need to read and understand the specific policies of the airline you are flying with.