You can check in for Turkish Airlines flights starting 24 hours before your scheduled departure time using the airline’s online check-in system or mobile app. This online check-in window closes 90 minutes prior to departure for most flights. The online check-in process allows you to select your seat, update personal details, and obtain your boarding pass digitally, which you can either print or save on your mobile device. This option is highly convenient and helps reduce waiting time at the airport. If you prefer, you can also use the airline’s self-service kiosks available at many airports. These kiosks typically open around 12 hours before departure and allow passengers to check in and print boarding passes. However, kiosk check-in closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 60 minutes before international flights, so it is important to plan accordingly.

For passengers who prefer to check in at the airport counter, Turkish Airlines opens its staffed counters approximately two hours before domestic flights and three hours before international flights. The staffed counters close 45 minutes prior to departure for domestic flights and 60 minutes prior to departure for international flights. Some airports, especially busy international hubs, may require earlier closing times for check-in counters; for example, at certain airports, counters may close up to 120 minutes before departure to comply with local security regulations. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements for the airport from which you are departing.

Turkish Airlines recommends that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before departure for domestic flights and three hours before for international flights. Arriving early gives you sufficient time to complete the check-in process, drop off any checked baggage, pass through security checks, and reach your boarding gate without rushing. Delays in any of these steps could risk missing your flight, especially at large airports where queues may be longer.

After completing check-in, it is important to be mindful of boarding gate closing times. Turkish Airlines typically closes boarding gates approximately 20 minutes before the scheduled departure time, although this can vary between airports. Some airports may require gates to close 25 minutes or more prior to departure for security and operational reasons. Missing the gate closing time can lead to denied boarding, even if you have checked in and hold a valid boarding pass. Therefore, it is essential to arrive at your gate well in advance of the scheduled departure.

Passengers with special needs, traveling with infants, or requiring assistance are usually advised to complete check-in at staffed counters rather than online or kiosks to ensure personalized support. If you are traveling with oversized baggage, pets, or require additional documentation such as visas or health certificates, arriving early and checking in at the counter is strongly recommended.

In summary, Turkish Airlines offers multiple check-in options beginning 24 hours before departure online and up to a couple of hours prior at the airport. Online check-in closes 90 minutes before departure, kiosk check-in closes 45 to 60 minutes before flights, and counters close 45 to 60 minutes before departure depending on flight type. Passengers should arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international flights. Boarding gates typically close 20 minutes before departure. Planning ahead and following these timelines helps ensure a smooth and stress-free start to your journey with Turkish Airlines.