You can check in for Air France flights starting 30 hours before departure through the official website or mobile app. For flights departing from the United States, the check-in window opens 24 hours before departure due to regulatory guidelines. During online check-in, passengers can choose seats, add baggage, and receive boarding passes by email, SMS, or wallet app. Online check-in closes 60 minutes before departure for most routes, though some international flights may have earlier deadlines.

If you check in at the airport, self-service kiosks are available at most locations and usually open on the day of departure. These kiosks close based on the same schedule as online check-in. Staffed check-in counters typically open about 2 hours before domestic and short-haul flights and about 3 hours before long-haul international flights. Counter check-in closes 40 to 60 minutes before takeoff, depending on the route and airport regulations.

Air France recommends arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before flights within France and Europe and at least 3 hours before long-haul international departures. This time is needed for check-in, security screening, immigration, and reaching the boarding gate. If you have already checked in online and are traveling with hand baggage only, you may proceed directly to security. If you have checked luggage, you must drop it off at the baggage counter before the deadline.

Boarding gates close 15 minutes before departure for domestic flights within France and 20 minutes before departure for most other flights. If you miss the gate closing time, boarding is denied even with a valid boarding pass. Special service passengers, including those with reduced mobility or traveling with infants, are advised to complete check-in at staffed counters.

In summary, Air France allows check-in 30 hours before departure, or 24 hours for U.S. flights. Online and kiosk check-in closes about 60 minutes prior. Airport counters open 2 to 3 hours before flights and close 40 to 60 minutes before departure. Arrive 2 to 3 hours early to allow time for all airport formalities. Boarding gates close 15 to 20 minutes before departure.