Hainan Airlines Check-in Policy: Complete Guide to Online, Mobile, and Airport Check-in

Hainan Airlines is one of China’s largest airlines, recognized for its excellent service, modern fleet, and extensive global network. Understanding the Hainan Airlines check-in policy is essential for a smooth journey, whether you’re flying domestically in China or internationally.

This detailed guide covers online check-in, mobile check-in, airport counter deadlines, baggage rules, seat selection, special assistance, and boarding procedures so you can travel stress-free.

About Hainan Airlines

Hainan Airlines, headquartered in Haikou, Hainan Province, is China’s fourth-largest airline. Its main hubs are:

Haikou Meilan International Airport (HAK)
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK)

The airline flies across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania, offering both domestic and international flights with high service standards.

Hainan Airlines Check-in Options Overview

Hainan Airlines provides several check-in methods for passenger convenience:

Online check-in
Mobile app check-in
Airport counter check-in
Self-service kiosks at select airports

Passengers are encouraged to check in online or via mobile to save time at the airport.

Online Check-in Policy (Hainan Airlines)

When Does Online Check-in Open?

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure for most flights.
For some international routes, online check-in may open earlier depending on regulations.

Who Can Use Online Check-in?

Available for Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class passengers.
Not available for:
- Passengers traveling with pets
- Unaccompanied minors
- Passengers requiring special assistance

Mobile Check-in via Hainan Airlines App

Using the Hainan Airlines app, passengers can:

Check in via smartphone
Receive mobile boarding passes
Get real-time updates on gates and flight status

Mobile check-in is especially useful for travelers without checked baggage.

Airport Check-in Policy (Hainan Airlines)

Recommended Arrival Time

Domestic flights: Arrive 1–2 hours before departure
International flights: Arrive 2–3 hours before departure

Check-in Counter Closing Time

Domestic flights: 40–45 minutes before departure
International flights: 60 minutes before departure

Arriving late may result in denied boarding, even if you have a confirmed ticket.

Self-Service Check-in Kiosks

At major airports, Hainan Airlines provides self-service kiosks to:

Check in
Print boarding passes
Tag checked baggage

These kiosks reduce waiting time during busy travel periods.

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Baggage Check-in Policy

Checked Baggage Allowance

Baggage allowances depend on:

Route
Fare type
Cabin class
Frequent flyer status

General guidelines:

Economy Class: Usually 1–2 checked bags
Business Class: Higher baggage allowance
First Class: Maximum baggage benefits

Passengers should always confirm their allowance at booking.

Carry-on Baggage Rules

Passengers may carry:

1 cabin bag
1 personal item (handbag or laptop bag)

Strict enforcement of size and weight limits applies, especially on domestic flights.

Baggage Drop After Online Check-in

Passengers who check in online but have checked baggage must:

Use the baggage drop counter
Drop baggage before the cut-off time

Failure to comply may result in missed flights.

Seat Selection During Check-in

Seat selection is available:

During booking
At online or mobile check-in
At airport counters

Some preferred seats may incur extra fees depending on fare type.

Special Assistance and Medical Check-in

Passengers requiring:

Wheelchair assistance
Medical clearance
Special meals

Should arrive early and may need to check in at the airport for verification.

Unaccompanied Minors Check-in Policy

Children traveling alone:

Must check in at the airport
Require proper documentation
Receive assistance from Hainan Airlines staff throughout the journey

Online check-in is not available for unaccompanied minors.

Boarding Process at Hainan Airlines

Boarding generally starts:

30–45 minutes before departure

Priority boarding is offered to:

First and Business Class passengers
Frequent flyer elite members
Families with infants

Boarding is typically orderly and punctual.

International Travel Document Verification

For international flights, airport verification may be required for:

Passports
Visas
Health or entry documents

Even online-checked-in passengers may need document checks at the airport.

Why Hainan Airlines Check-in Experience Stands Out

Hainan Airlines is praised for:

Clear and flexible check-in rules
Organized airport operations
Friendly staff
Excellent punctuality

Its check-in policy balances efficiency, convenience, and compliance with safety regulations.

Tips for a Smooth Hainan Airlines Check-in

Check in online as early as possible
Arrive early for international flights
Confirm baggage rules in advance
Keep travel documents handy
Use mobile boarding passes whenever possible

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Conclusion

The Hainan Airlines check-in policy is designed to make travel convenient, fast, and stress-free. By understanding deadlines, baggage rules, and special requirements, passengers can ensure a smooth start to their journey, whether traveling domestically in China or internationally.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

1. When can I check in online with Hainan Airlines?

Online check-in opens 24 hours before departure.

2. How early should I arrive for international flights?

Arrive 2–3 hours before departure.

3. Can I use mobile boarding passes?

Yes, mobile boarding passes are accepted at most airports.

4. Can I check in online if I have checked baggage?

Yes, but you must drop your baggage before the cut-off time.

5. Who cannot check in online with Hainan Airlines?

Unaccompanied minors, passengers traveling with pets, and those needing special assistance must check in at the airport.