Copa Airlines offers convenient online check-in for most passengers, allowing travelers to check in up to 24 hours before their flight departure. This service is accessible through the Copa Airlines official website or mobile app, making it easy for passengers to secure their boarding passes from the comfort of their home or on the go. To complete online check-in, passengers need their reservation number or e-ticket number along with their last name. Alternatively, Copa Airlines frequent flyers can log in through their ConnectMiles account. Once checked in, travelers receive an electronic boarding pass, which they can download to their phone or print for airport use. This process helps reduce wait times at the airport, as travelers who have checked in online can proceed directly to security if they are traveling with carry-on luggage only.

However, not all passengers are eligible for online check-in. Copa Airlines has specific restrictions in place for certain types of travelers and bookings. Passengers with paper tickets are required to check in at the airport. Similarly, travelers who still have outstanding payments or balances due because of reservation changes cannot complete online check-in until those payments are settled. Also, itineraries involving connections with airlines other than Copa Airlines or its Colombian partner may require airport check-in. Those traveling with infants, unaccompanied minors, or passengers who require special assistance must also check in at the airport counter to ensure their specific needs are met. Additionally, passengers traveling with pets or large groups of 10 or more on a single reservation need to complete check-in in person. Some airports, such as Havana in Cuba, have their own restrictions that require airport check-in. Lastly, any reservation missing the necessary airport taxes or with recent changes and outstanding fees must be handled at the counter.

For passengers who must check in at the airport, Copa Airlines opens its counters three hours before international flights and one hour before domestic flights. The counters close one hour prior to international departures and 45 minutes before domestic flights, so it is important for passengers to arrive early to complete their check-in and drop off any checked luggage. These times help ensure smooth processing and allow enough time for security screening and boarding procedures.

Regarding baggage, even passengers who have checked in online must drop off any checked bags at the airport. For international flights, baggage drop-off typically closes 90 minutes before departure, while domestic flights usually require drop-off at least 30 minutes before boarding begins. Passengers traveling without checked luggage can proceed directly to their boarding gates but should arrive early enough to pass through security and locate their gate. For domestic flights, boarding gates usually close 30 minutes before departure, while international flights require passengers to be at the gate at least 45 minutes prior.

The online check-in option greatly benefits travelers by saving time and simplifying the airport experience. By completing check-in in advance, passengers reduce the risk of long lines and last-minute hassles, especially during peak travel times. It also allows travelers to confirm their seats, update passenger details, and sometimes select meal preferences ahead of time.

If passengers encounter difficulties or are unsure whether they qualify for online check-in, Copa Airlines provides customer support to assist with inquiries. Calling the dedicated customer service number +1-866-551-1186 connects passengers with representatives who can answer questions, help with reservations, or guide travelers through the check-in process. This support is particularly helpful for those traveling under special circumstances or with complex itineraries.

In summary, Copa Airlines offers a comprehensive online check-in system available 24 hours before flights, improving convenience and efficiency for most travelers. Still, some restrictions require certain passengers to check in at the airport, ensuring safety and compliance with airline policies. Passengers should review their eligibility for online check-in ahead of time and plan their airport arrival accordingly to avoid any complications. Using online check-in whenever possible helps ensure a smoother start to the journey with Copa Airlines.