Airline Announces Check-In Changes at Lafayette and Other Airports

(KMDL-FM) Chances are, if you fly out of any of Louisiana's commercial airports, you are going to be flying on one of three airlines. American, Delta, and United are the three major carriers that service our state's airports. Granted, a lot of that service is done through contracts with regional carriers in cities such as Lafayette, Shreveport, Lake Charles, Monroe, and Alexandria.

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Still, whether you're flying out of Alexandria heading for Dallas or you're jetting out of New Orleans heading for Orlando, there is one thing all airline passengers in Louisiana have to have in common. In order to fly, you've got to get on the plane. And one of the major carriers in Louisiana is making a significant change to its check-in policy.

How Early Should You Check In Before a Domestic or International Flight?

Yeah, that's the policy that actually gets you on the plane, so you're going to want to know this nugget of knowledge before you and your REAL ID go through security and get on board. Oh, and you didn't pack that in your suitcase case did you?

Now that we've got you cleared for takeoff and through security, let's get you on the plane. If you're flying United Airlines as of June 3rd, you're going to need to be ready to board that plane 15 minutes earlier than you used to.

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As of June 3, 2025, United is requiring customers without checked bags to check in for their domestic flights at least 45 minutes before departure. This is 15 minutes earlier than you previously had to check in. The check-in standards for guests flying with checked luggage remain the same, 45 minutes.

Guests who are flying to international destinations are still required to check in at least one hour before departure and be prepared to board 30 minutes before departure.

What Is the Earliest You Can Check In For a Flight?

Guests may still check in for flights up to 24 hours in advance of departure. I find that checking in at that time allows for a better boarding group, but that's not always the case. And as far as arriving at the airport is concerned, if you don't want to have an anxiety attack going through TSA, I would suggest you arrive at least two hours before your flight.

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And once you're onboard, you can figure out how you're going to pay for parking once you get back.

How Much Does It Cost to Park at Louisiana Airports?

If you drive to the airport you're going to have to pay for parking. The amount you pay will vary depending on how long you're gone, the kind of parking you choose, and a few other factors. On average, parking at US airports is $20 per day. Some airports ask for more, some don't charge as much. But $20 is a good figure to use for budgeting.

Gallery Credit: Bruce Mikels