Emirates has extended its online check-in from 24 hours to 48 hours before departure. Business travellers around the world can now check in online on both desktop and mobile devices from 48 hours to 90 minutes before flight departure.

The increased lead time offers customers greater flexibility in choosing their seats and reduces waiting time at the airport. Passengers can drop their luggage at online check-in counters before heading straight through to immigration and security.  For flights to and from the United States, while online check-in is available 48 hours before departure, boarding passes will only be issued 24 hours in advance.

“We have always taken into account feedback to improve the customer journey, and the extension of online check-in is a result of that,” says Alex Knigge, senior vice president of corporate communications marketing & brand (digital). “By allowing check-in from 48 hours before departure we are providing our customers added flexibility to choose their preferred seats for a more comfortable journey. This is just one of the many initiatives we are implementing to enhance our customers’ experience online.”

The earlier check-in window on emirates.com will also enable more seamless communication with customers should there be unexpected flight delays or disruptions. For members of Emirates Skywards, the airline’s frequent flyer programme, the extended check in time will also mean better availability of upgrades.

In addition, the recently introduced ‘Hold my fare’ option on emirates.com has been extended to 72 hours, granting customers more time to hold their reservations and lock in competitive Emirates fares for a nominal fee.  www.emirates.com