Has anyone used it lately? It isn't mentioned on the ba web site.

The only web references I can find (which are old) say you have to check in at least an hour and a half before your flight's scheduled departure time. Does anyone know how EARLY you can check in?

It would be perfect if we could check out of our hotel early in the morning and immediately check our bags for a late afternoon flight.

I was a big fan of the Victoria check-in, but it's long gone. You can do the on-line check in up to 24 hours in advance of your flight, then when you arrive at the airport you can do the fast bag drop. The fast bag drop still involves waiting in line, but it's a much faster process than using the regular check-in.